Marlie Viljoen cautious with 400m title on the line

By Mazola Molefe
22nd July 2025

FISU World University Games 400m champion Marlie Viljoen believes she has finally shaken off her injury setback in time to defend her title.

She ran a comfortable 53.48 on Monday evening in Rhine-Ruhr on the first day of track and field in Germany, finishing first in her heat to qualify for the semifinals along with teammate Precious Molepo.

Speaking to SABC Sport shortly after her race, Viljoen admitted she was still cautious and not putting pressure on herself to retain the gold medal.

"I'm just grateful to be able to run. I think we take so many opportunities like this one for granted, when you're injured, you'll give anything just to run.

"My mental capacity and ability to overcome has improved so much after my injury, and I just have a brand new outlook on running," said the talented Viljoen.

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The 24-year-old Tuks student added that she did not take representing her country on the international stage for granted.

"Running for my country is a total honour, and the USSA team is just an awesome team to be a part of.

Molepo also reacted to being in the semis on Tuesday night, revealing she was targeting a bronze medal in the 400m.

"It's so difficult to be doing a 400m event again, by now you are showing signs of pain and fatigue, but I'm so happy to have made it into the semi's.

"I just try to focus on my own lane, and I'll be going all out for a place in the final, and I hope to return home with a bronze medal."