Gold medallist in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games Faith Kipyegon has explained why her achievements are an inspiration to young girls and the future generation.

The 30-year-old contributed two medals – a silver in the 5,000m and a gold in 1,500m – to Kenya’s tally of 11 trophies achieved in France. 

“It was motivational to have stood on that podium, being the greatest 1500m runner of all time and knowing that I have inspired many young girls in the next generation. It was a big achievement for me, and I think I’ve been an inspiration to many young girls,” Kipyegon explained.

To her, the achievement in the French capital was not possible without key people who she has been training and working with.

“I don’t know how I came out and performed the way I did in the 1500m to make history, and I really thank all the people who supported me. My fans, my management, my coach, my training partners and team here, Beatrice Chebet, and the rest of the people who talked to me,” she added.

Kipyegon’s goal

She says the moment was frustrating and emotionally draining.

“My main goal was to defend my title and make history, and I really thank God that I could come out after frustrations and disappointment over the 5000m. I can’t say it was a disappointment, but it was a little bit traumatic, you know,” she added.

Kipyegon, a three-time world champion in 1,500m, faced turbulence in her appearance in the 5,000m final as she was disqualified – before her silver medal was reinstated – after engaging in a push-and-pull battle with Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay. She was given back her medal after an appeal was launched by Kenya in a race that was won by Chebet.

“So, I’ve won silver; I’ve been given a dq (disqualification) without my knowledge, and I was like, ‘What did I do?’. It took a lot of energy on me. I don’t know; I still don’t know how to say it; it’s still emotional because it was really emotional to me,” she concluded.

Kipyegon and other athletes who took part in the Paris Games will meet with President Ruto on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at Eldoret’s State Lodge.