Faith Cherotich Shatters Yavi’s Reign to Claim 3000m Steeplechase Gold in Tokyo

Faith Cherotich surged past Winfred Yavi after the final water jump to capture victory in the women’s 3000m steeplechase, breaking the Championship Record with an unforgettable run.

The 20-year-old Kenyan delivered a career-defining performance at the Tokyo Diamond League, crossing the line in 8:51.59. Her electrifying finish not only secured gold but also marked a new era in one of track’s most demanding races.

A Race to Remember

From the start, Yavi set a fierce pace, with Uganda’s Peruth Chemutai staying close before a costly stumble forced her out of contention. Cherotich, however, stayed composed and matched stride for stride, showing remarkable maturity for her age.

As the race neared its climax, Yavi appeared on course to defend her crown, but Cherotich launched a decisive sprint on the bell lap. Timing her move perfectly at the penultimate hurdle, she unleashed a devastating kick to leave Yavi trailing.

Yavi, a decorated four-time global medalist, fought valiantly but finished second in 8:56.46, nearly five seconds adrift. Ethiopia’s Sembo Almayew made her own statement with a lifetime best of 8:58.86 to secure the bronze medal.

Record-Breaking Night

The race produced several standout performances beyond the podium. Tunisia’s Marwa Bouzayani smashed her national record with 9:01.46 to finish fourth, the finest run of her career.

Germany’s Gesa Felicitas Krause, twice a world bronze medalist, showcased her grit by clocking a season’s best of 9:14.27 for seventh, narrowly ahead of Ethiopia’s Lomi Muleta, who placed eighth in 9:14.90.

Kenya’s strength in depth was also evident as Doris Lemngole (5th, 9:02.39) and Norah Jeruto (6th, 9:06.34) both finished strongly but narrowly missed podium spots. Meanwhile, Team USA struggled to break into the top pack, with Angelina Napoleon (9th, 9:17.44), Kaylee Mitchell (10th, 9:18.66), and Lexy Halladay (14th, 9:34.03) all falling short of medal contention.

One of the evening’s biggest setbacks was Chemutai’s withdrawal. The 2021 Olympic champion’s fall not only ended her race but also raised concerns about her fitness ahead of the next season.

A New Era Begins

Cherotich’s triumph signalled a generational shift in women’s steeplechase. With the 2026 Olympics on the horizon, she has firmly positioned herself as the new favorite. Still, Yavi’s consistency, combined with the rise of Almayew and Bouzayani, ensures that the battles ahead will be fiercely competitive.