Faith Kipyegon shattered the world record in the women’s 1500m at the Paris Diamond League, clocking a remarkable 3:49.04.
Kipyegon, who hadn’t competed this year until the Kenyan Olympic trials last month, swiftly demonstrated why she remains the heavy favourite, adding to her six global golds.
“It feels amazing to break the world record. I am in the right direction towards the Paris Olympics,” Kipyegon said. She reflected on her journey, stating, “I have come from far because of the injury and recovering. After the trials, I knew that I was in world-record shape. I have run the quickest time in Kenya with the altitude. It showed me that I was capable of breaking the world record again. We just tried, because everything is possible.”
Australian Jessica Hull finished second, with Britain’s Laura Muir setting a new national record of 3:53.79 to complete the podium.
“Jessica was really good. I felt that she was behind me and I had to be careful because you never know if something can happen. But I just relaxed and ran my race.” Kipyegon, in praise of her competitors, said.
“The crowd was really cheerful, that was why the energy was so strong, it is really pushing us towards the finish line.” Reflecting on her injury struggles, she said, “With my injury, I was really scared because I didn’t know if I was going to make it. But I took my time and trusted my team and stayed out of competition for long.” Kipyegon noted, referring to the supportive atmosphere.
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Kipyegon’s outstanding performance is a continuation of her exceptional 2023 season, where she set world records in the 1500m, 5,000m, and the mile.
Looking ahead to the Paris Olympics, Kipyegon declared, “I will absolutely do the double in Paris, in the 1500m and 5000m!”
Kenyan President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga were among those who celebrated Kipyegon’s achievement.
“Faith Kipyegon has once again made history. Congratulations on breaking your own record in the 1500m race. Your victory is a testament to the rewards of hard work and determination, a valuable lesson to the aspiring young athletes who look up to you.” President Ruto posted on X.
READ: Faith Kipyegon breaks women’s 1500m world record in Diamond League
“Faith Kipyegon, your great feat of breaking your own Women’s 1500m world record in Paris is truly motivating. Your dedication and passion power the ambitions of Kenya’s athletes and youth. Keep running and shining!” Raila Odinga praised Kipyegon.\
The Diamond League also saw Ukraine’s Yaroslava Mahuchikh break a 37-year-old world record in the women’s high jump with a first-time clearance of 2.10m, highlighting the event’s high level of competition.
British champion Georgia Bell also achieved a personal best of 3:56.54, finishing fifth, while Katie Snowden took ninth in 3:58.13.
Kipyegon’s record-breaking run solidifies her status as a formidable contender as the Olympic Games approach.
The 30-year-old Kenyan star now sets her sights on securing a third consecutive Olympic title in Paris next month, cementing her dominance in middle-distance running.
