In a remarkable display of athleticism, Faith Kipyegon, the double Olympic champion in the 1,500m, once again made history by smashing the women’s 5,000m world record with an astonishing time of 14:05.20 at the Paris Diamond League.
This extraordinary feat comes just one week after Kipyegon obliterated the women’s 1,500m world record at the Florence Diamond League with a time of 3:49.11.
Stepping onto the Diamond League stage for the first time in the 5,000m event, Kipyegon faced formidable opponents, including Letesenbet Gidey of Ethiopia, the current world record holder over the distance, and Margaret Chelimo, a former world silver medalist.
Throughout the race, Kipyegon trailed Gidey, who led for the majority of the event. However, in a breathtaking final kick, Kipyegon unleashed her formidable speed, surging past Gidey to claim victory and set a new world record, with Gidey finishing second in a time of 14:07.94.
After crossing the finish line, Kipyegon was overcome with emotion, bursting into tears of joy. When asked about her mindset during the race, she humbly admitted, “No, I did not think about the world record, I do not know how I made it. I just focused on the green light and tried to stay relaxed and enjoy the race. I just did the race and wanted to see what happens. When I saw that it was a world record, I was so surprised. It was all about giving my best. I just wanted to improve on my personal best; the world record was not my plan.”
The race was enhanced by the presence of three pacesetters, including Beatrice Chepkoech, another Kenyan athlete and a world record holder in the 3,000m steeplechase.
Guided by the trackside lighting system indicating world record pace, Kipyegon took the lead with 700m remaining in the 12-and-a-half lap race. Gidey stayed close on her heels as Kipyegon, a dominant force in the 1,500m, maintained her front position.
Despite Gidey’s attempt to mount a comeback in the final 200 meters, Kipyegon unleashed an exceptional burst of speed, leaving her Ethiopian rival behind and sealing another phenomenal victory.
Gidey finished in second place with a time of 14:07.94, while Ejgayehu Taye, another Ethiopian athlete and the world record holder over 5km, claimed third place in 14:13.31.
Originally scheduled to return to Kenya for a training camp before competing in the Monaco Diamond League meet on July 21, Kipyegon’s plans may now be reconsidered following her second world record-breaking performance.
Overwhelmed with joy and still processing her remarkable achievement, Kipyegon expressed, “I do not know what will be next; I still have to discuss it with my coach and my management. I am so happy, I am very emotional right now and do not know what to say. If my body is healthy, anything is possible.”
Additional Reporting By AFP
