By Kennedy Nalyanya
Faith Kipyegon has once again cemented her place in the pantheon of athletics legends, delivering a performance for the ages at the World Athletics Championships. The Kenyan superstar has not only added to her impressive medal haul but has also carved out new and unprecedented achievements that will be talked about for years to come.
A Historic Four-Peat in the 1500m
Kipyegon made history by becoming the first woman to win four World Championship gold medals in the 1500m. This remarkable feat, achieved in 2017, 2022, 2023, and most recently in 2025 in Tokyo, places her in an elite category. Her dominant run in the 2025 final, where she led from start to finish and won by a significant margin, showcased her unparalleled control and tactical brilliance. This victory now puts her on par with the legendary Hicham El Guerrouj, who also won four world titles in the men's 1500m.
The Unprecedented 1500m/5000m Double
Perhaps her most breathtaking achievement came at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest, where she accomplished something no woman had ever done before: winning both the 1500m and the 5000m gold medals at the same championship. This "double" demonstrated her incredible range and endurance, a rare combination in modern athletics. In the 5000m final, a tactical race in which she had limited prior experience, Kipyegon outkicked a world-class field, including a final-lap sprint against Sifan Hassan, to secure the historic win.
A Legacy of Dominance and Consistency
Kipyegon's success is not just about a few standout moments; it's a testament to her sustained dominance. She is a three-time Olympic champion in the 1500m and holds multiple world records. Her ability to consistently perform at the highest level, across different distances and over a span of many years, has rightfully earned her the title of one of the greatest female middle and long-distance runners in history. Her journey, which includes a triumphant return to the sport after becoming a mother, has made her an inspiration to many.
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