The athletics events at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, held from September 22nd to October 1st, 2000, showcased a blend of spectacular achievements and unforgettable moments at the Olympic Stadium. The program featured 46 events, with 24 for men and 22 for women, drawing 2,134 athletes from 193 nations. The competition was fierce, with numerous world-class performances and the emergence of new stars.

One of the most iconic moments was Australian Cathy Freeman's victory in the women's 400 meters, a symbolic win for reconciliation as she carried both the Australian and Aboriginal flags in her lap of honor. American Michael Johnson also left his mark, winning gold in the men's 400 meters. Maurice Greene (USA) clinched the men's 100-meter title, while Kostas Kenteris (Greece) surprised many by winning the men's 200 meters on home soil for his adopted nation.

In the distance events, Ethiopia's Haile Gebrselassie defended his 10,000-meter title in a thrilling sprint finish, and his compatriot Gezahegne Abera won the men's marathon. Romania's Gabriela Szabo triumphed in the women's 5000 meters, and her compatriot Nouria Mérah-Benida (Algeria) took gold in the 1500 meters. Maria Mutola of Mozambique finally achieved Olympic gold in the women's 800 meters after years of being a top contender.

The field events also produced memorable results. Britain's Jonathan Edwards soared to gold in the men's triple jump, while Cuba's Iván Pedroso won the men's long jump. Jan Železný of the Czech Republic continued his dominance in the javelin, securing another gold medal. In the combined events, Erki Nool (Estonia) won a hard-fought decathlon, and Denise Lewis (Great Britain) claimed gold in the heptathlon.

The United States topped the athletics medal table with 7 gold, 4 silver, and 5 bronze medals. Ethiopia finished second, followed by Poland. The Sydney Olympics are remembered for their electric atmosphere, outstanding athletic displays, and the emotional resonance of Freeman's victory, solidifying the Games' place in Olympic history.