Faith Kipyegon, a three-time Olympic 1500m champion and one of the most dominant middle-distance runners in history, recently opened up about why she is not overly focused on breaking her close friend Beatrice Chebet’s world record in the 5000m in the upcoming season.
Chebet made history at the 2025 Prefontaine Classic by smashing the 5000m world record previously held by Kipyegon. In an awe-inspiring performance, Chebet became the first woman ever to complete the 12.5-lap race in under 14 minutes, clocking an astonishing 13:58.06. The race featured a fiercely competitive field, with second-place finisher Gudaf Tsegay and third-place Agnes Ngetich running times of 14:00.21 and 14:01.29 respectively—both inside the old world record mark. Chebet’s groundbreaking run represents a new pinnacle in women’s long-distance running and signals the start of an electrifying season ahead.
Before Chebet’s record-breaking feat, Kipyegon herself had set the 5000m world record at the 2023 Diamond League meeting in Paris. She posted a formidable time of 14:05.20, which now ranks as the fourth fastest ever recorded over the distance. This achievement came just a week after Kipyegon shattered the 1500m world record, further underscoring her supremacy and versatility across middle- and long-distance events.
Reflecting on her sporting priorities, Kipyegon revealed: “I’ve learned not to plan too far ahead with records. For now, I want to take time off and refresh. Then we will see what next season has in mind for me. Records are very special, but they don’t come easy.”
In a sport where moments of brilliance are often separated by intense preparation and strategic pacing, Kipyegon’s measured approach underscores the challenges behind record-breaking runs. While Chebet has taken the 5000m record to unprecedented lows, Kipyegon’s focus remains on carefully balancing competition with rest and rejuvenation.
Together, these two Kenyan athletes are redefining the limits of women’s athletics, pushing each other and the sport to new heights. Their remarkable rivalry and friendship continue to inspire fans worldwide, setting the stage for thrilling championships in the years to come.
