Kenyan distance running sensation Faith Kipyegon cemented her legacy at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, capturing an unprecedented fourth 1500m gold medal on Tuesday. The 31-year-old phenom now shares the distinction with retired Moroccan star Hicham El Guerrouj as the only athletes ever to achieve this feat.
Kipyegon dominated the race from start to finish, executing a blistering final lap to cross the line in 3:52.15 - nearly three seconds ahead of compatriot Dorcus Ewoi, who took silver. Australia's Jessica Hull claimed bronze after fading in the closing stages.
"I knew I could defend my title after breaking the world record earlier this year," Kipyegon told reporters post-race. "I focused on running my own race cleanly without interference."
The victory marks Kipyegon's eighth career global gold across championships and Olympics, tying her with sprint icon Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce for most individual titles by a female athlete. Her current unbeaten streak in major finals stretches five years, with her last 1500m defeat occurring in 2021 outside championship heats.
Continuing Dominance
- Has won 7 of last 8 global 1500m titles since 2019
- Oldest woman to claim world 1500m championship
- Holds world records in 1500m (3:48.68) and mile (4:07.64)
BBC commentator Andrew Cotter marveled at Kipyegon's race strategy: "She systematically increases pace each lap - others simply can't match that progression. All they can do is try to survive."
The Kenyan star now shifts focus to the 5000m heats beginning Thursday, aiming to replicate her 2022 world championship double. Her performance continues to inspire young athletes worldwide, particularly in Kenya where she once ran barefoot to school before becoming one of track's most decorated champions.
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