Faith Kipyegon says she is having her best year after claiming the gold medal in the women’s 5000 metres at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest.
The Kenyan long distance runner had already taken gold in the women’s 1500 metres and did it dominant fashion in the 5000 metres on Saturday, crossing the finish line in a time of 14 minutes, 53.88 seconds ahead of Ethiopia’s Diribe Welteji and Ethiopian-born Dutch Sifan. It was her fourth championship gold medal and first time she won two gold medals at the same event.
Even though Kipyegon was the front runner in the women’s 1500 metres and 5000 metres after breaking the world record earlier this year, she said she was not expecting to be so dominant due to her strong opponents.
“It has been amazing, you know. I’m so happy. I thank God. This has been really super here for me since I thought that with the world records, and now two-time world champion,” the 29-year-old stated.
“It has been amazing journey and I really thanks my coach, my manager, my physio, the Kenya team in general, and for their support and believing in me that I can do it.
“Yeah, I was not expecting, you know, the ladies were strong and we all knew we were going for the gold medal. But I had to believe in myself. I’m the world record holder and I am still here. I just keep moving and pushing myself to the finish line. And I think that I admit I’ve made history and empowered women and young generation.
“Absolutely, this has been my best year and this has been incredible.”
The gift that keeps on giving ????
????????'s Faith Kipyegon blazes to 5000m gold after a scintillating final lap in 56 seconds ????
14:53.88 for the win.#WorldAthleticsChamps pic.twitter.com/VDgeHxSY15
— World Athletics (@WorldAthletics) August 26, 2023
Kipyegon will now turn her attention to the Diamond League where she will be looking to defend her 1500 metres title from last year before gearing up for next year’s Olympics in Paris.
