Faith Kipyegon Returns to Kenya After A Triumph in Tokyo

Faith Kipyegon has made it clear that she is not leaving the 1500m any time soon, though she admitted there is one situation that could see her eventually step up to the marathon.

The four-time world 1500m champion has cemented her place as one of the greatest athletes in middle-distance running. Over the years, she has built a remarkable record that includes multiple world titles, Olympic crowns, and stunning world records.

Kipyegon first shattered the 1500m world record at the Diamond League Meeting in Florence in 2023, setting a new time of 3:49.11. She went on to better her mark at the Paris Diamond League in 2024, clocking 3:49.04. Her most recent record-breaking feat came in 2025 at the Prefontaine Classic, further underlining her dominance.

Alongside these achievements, she has collected four world titles in 2017, 2022, 2023, and 2025, plus three Olympic gold medals in 2016, 2021, and 2024. With such accolades, Kipyegon’s legacy in the 1500m is unmatched.

Kipyegon Shares Her Thoughts on Switching Distances

Speaking at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport after returning from Tokyo, where she won gold in the 1500m and silver in the 5000m, Kipyegon revealed that her motivation remains to inspire young athletes. She emphasized that the only factor that could push her toward the marathon would be losing her dominance in the 1500m.

“For now, I can’t say exactly when I will switch. Maybe if someone beats me in the 1500m, that would be the moment to consider the marathon,” she explained. “Right now, I will continue dreaming big and inspiring the next generation, especially women.”

Kipyegon highlighted how her journey has motivated others, such as fellow Kenyan Beatrice Chebet, who looked up to her during her early career and is now excelling in the 5000m and 10,000m.

She also praised the 2025 World Athletics Championships for being historic, with women clinching gold medals across events ranging from the 800m to the marathon.

Future Plans and Upcoming Events

Looking ahead, Kipyegon hinted that she might skip the 2026 Commonwealth Games but left the door open for possible participation. “I already have Commonwealth Games medals, so I don’t think I will be there next year, but let’s see what opportunities arise,” she said.

She described Kenya’s performance in Tokyo as special, noting the country returned with seven gold medals, a moment of pride for both the athletes and the nation.

Kipyegon’s immediate focus is on concluding her season at Athlos, Alexis Ohanian’s women-only competition, scheduled for October 10, 2025.