Kenyan middle-distance legend Faith Kipyegon and long-distance powerhouse Beatrice Chebet are poised for a thrilling showdown in the women’s 5000 meters final at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
Both athletes have already secured gold medals in their respective events this week, and now they aim to add another title to their illustrious careers.
Kipyegon, the reigning world and Olympic champion in the 1500 meters, solidified her status as one of the greatest middle-distance runners of all time by clinching her fourth world title in the event. She dominated the race from start to finish, clocking a time of 3:52.15, well ahead of her competitors.
This victory ties her with Moroccan great Hicham El Guerrouj for the most world titles in the 1500 meters. Kipyegon, who is also the world record holder in the 1500 meters, is now aiming to extend her dominance to the 5000 meters, a distance she has previously excelled in.
Chebet, known as the “Smiling Assassin,” has been in exceptional form this season. She began her campaign in Tokyo by winning the 10,000 meters gold medal with a time of 30:37.61, narrowly edging out Italy’s Nadia Battocletti.
Chebet’s victory was a testament to her endurance and tactical acumen, as she surged ahead in the final lap to secure the win. This triumph marked her first world title in the 10,000 meters and added to her growing reputation as one of the premier long-distance runners in the world.
The upcoming 5000 meters final is set to be a historic race, as it will be the first time Kipyegon and Chebet face each other in this event since the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Their previous encounters have been marked by intense competition and mutual respect, and this final promises to be no different. Both athletes have expressed their desire to achieve the rare feat of winning world titles in multiple distance events, a challenge that only a few have managed to accomplish.
The 5000 meters final will also feature other strong contenders, including Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay, who has consistently been a formidable force in long-distance races.
Tsegay’s experience and tactical prowess make her a serious threat to the Kenyan duo. Additionally, Kenya’s Agnes Jebet Ngetich, who has been in impressive form this season, will also be vying for a podium finish.
The National Stadium in Tokyo is expected to be packed with spectators, eager to witness this epic clash between two of Kenya’s finest athletes. The atmosphere will undoubtedly be electric, with fans cheering on their compatriots in what promises to be a memorable race.
As the final approaches, all eyes will be on Kipyegon and Chebet, as they look to add another chapter to their storied careers. Their performances in Tokyo have already solidified their places among the greats of the sport, and a victory in the 5000 meters would further cement their legacies.
Regardless of the outcome, the race is set to be a celebration of Kenyan athletics and a testament to the country’s dominance in long-distance running.
With both athletes in peak form and the stakes higher than ever, the 5000 meters final in Tokyo is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated races in recent memory. Fans around the world will be watching closely, eager to see who will emerge victorious in this historic showdown.