Axelina Johansson: Shattering Records and Challenging Prejudices in Shot Put

Axelina Johansson, the 25-year-old Swedish shot putter, is making waves both on and off the field. Currently ranked fifth in the world, Johansson recently achieved a Swedish record of 19.72 meters in Lincoln, USA, and is preparing for the indoor World Championships in Torun. Beyond her athletic achievements, she is actively challenging societal prejudices about female athletes and advocating for greater inclusivity in sports.

From Humble Beginnings to National Record Holder

Johansson’s journey in athletics began at age seven, but she discovered her passion for throwing events, particularly the shot put, in her mid-teens. Her dedication and talent have led to significant accomplishments, including a tenth-place finish in the shot put final at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France.

Prior to her Olympic appearance, Johansson excelled in the American collegiate system, competing for the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. In 2022, she achieved a personal best of 18.39m at the Big Ten Outdoor Championships, earning her the Big Ten Women’s Outdoor Freshman of the Year award. She also placed third at the NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships with a throw of 18.06m and reached the final at the 2022 World Athletics Championships with a personal best of 18.57m, finishing twelfth. She also competed at the 2022 European Athletics Championships in Munich, reaching the final and finishing seventh.

A Rising Tide in Women’s Shot Put

Johansson acknowledges the increasing competitiveness in women’s shot put, noting that a throw of 19.50 meters, which would have been competitive for a gold medal a few years ago, may now only be enough for a podium finish. She embraces this challenge, stating, “It’s a bit sad that you have to push so far for a medal, but at the same time it’s fun that the sport is being pushed forward.” Currently, four women have surpassed the 20-meter mark this year alone, demonstrating the sport’s rapid evolution.

Challenging Gender Stereotypes

Johansson is a vocal advocate against the prejudices faced by female shot putters. She uses her Instagram platform (@axelina.johansson) to inspire young girls and challenge the stereotype that female athletes must seem a certain way to excel in strength sports. She actively works to disprove the notion that female shot putters “must look like a man” to be successful.

Johansson recounts instances of inappropriate questioning from members of the media, including being asked why she participated in an “unsexy” sport and if she feared her physique would be negatively perceived. She now feels empowered to address such comments directly. “You are shocked, because you don’t think anyone would say something so stupid,” she said, reflecting on past experiences. “But if someone said something like this now, I’d hit back.”

Looking Ahead to the Indoor World Championships

Axelina Johansson will compete at the indoor World Championships on Friday evening, starting at 18:10. She will be joined by fellow Swede, Fanny Roos, in the final. Johansson feels her form is improving and is optimistic about her chances of success.

Photo: Simon Hastegård / Bildbyrån and Joel Marklund / Bildbyrån