The 2025 CrossFit Games, set to take place from August 1–3 at MVP Arena in Albany, New York, are poised to be one of the most unpredictable and emotionally charged editions in recent memory. The event follows the tragic death of Serbian athlete Lazar Đukić during the 2024 Games, a loss that has profoundly impacted the CrossFit community and led to significant changes in the competition's landscape.
🏋️♂️ Men's Division: A Battle of Veterans and Rising Stars
The men's field is headlined by 2023 champion Jeffrey Adler, who returns after withdrawing from the 2024 Games in the wake of Đukić's death. Adler's comeback is highly anticipated, as he seeks to reclaim his title and honor the memory of his fallen peer.
Joining Adler are seasoned competitors like Justin Medeiros, a two-time champion, and Roman Khrennikov, known for his exceptional endurance and consistency. Emerging talents such as Dallin Pepper and James Sprague have also qualified, bringing fresh energy and the potential to disrupt the established hierarchy.
🏋️♀️ Women's Division: A New Era Begins
The women's competition is notably open this year, with several top athletes absent. Tia-Clair Toomey-Orr, the seven-time champion, announced her retirement from CrossFit after competing in the Torian Pro in May 2025. Emma Lawson, who finished second in 2023, is also not participating this year.
This shift paves the way for athletes like Alexis Raptis and Haley Adams to make their mark. Raptis has shown remarkable consistency in recent competitions, while Adams returns after a hiatus, aiming to reestablish herself among the elite.
🧑🤝🧑 Team Division: International Contenders Emerge
The team competition features a diverse array of international squads, including CrossFit Oslo Kriger and CrossFit Mayhem. These teams bring a mix of experience and fresh talent, promising a dynamic and closely contested battle for the Affiliate Cup.
🚫 Notable Absences and Their Impact
The absence of prominent athletes such as Annie Thorisdottir, Patrick Vellner, and Chandler Smith has significantly altered the competitive landscape. Thorisdottir, a two-time champion, cited concerns over CrossFit's handling of Đukić's death as a reason for her withdrawal. Vellner and Smith have also stepped back, focusing on other pursuits and expressing a need for change within the sport.
These departures have opened opportunities for new athletes to rise but have also led to a sense of uncertainty and reflection within the community.
🎟️ Ticket Sales and Community Sentiment
Ticket sales for the 2025 Games have been notably slower compared to previous years. The 2024 Games saw tickets sell out in just 4.5 hours, reflecting high anticipation and community engagement. In contrast, the 2025 Games have experienced sluggish sales, with thousands of seats remaining unsold months before the event. This decline is attributed to factors such as the aftermath of Đukić's death, the absence of key athletes, and broader concerns about the direction of the sport.
🔮 Looking Ahead: A Pivotal Moment for CrossFit
The 2025 CrossFit Games represent a critical juncture for the sport. The combination of emerging talent, the departure of iconic figures, and the community's call for introspection and change sets the stage for a transformative event. As athletes converge in Albany, the Games will not only test physical prowess but also the resilience and unity of the CrossFit community.