Kenya’s Ruth Jepchumba Bundotich has been feted as the 2025 World Athletics Woman of the Year Award winner for her influential role in nurturing youth and women’s athlete development in Kenya.

The award recognised her role and commitment to sports leadership, athlete development, and exceptional contributions to the growth of women’s athletics in Kenya and beyond.

In a statement on Saturday, November 29, WAC credited her for a holistic approach to creating a sustainable and supportive pathway for emerging talents on and off the track.

“Ruth Jepchumba Bundotich has been announced as the recipient of the 2025 World Athletics Woman of the Year Award, honouring her outstanding leadership, commitment to athlete development, and exceptional contributions to the growth of women’s athletics in Kenya and beyond,” the WAC statement read in part.

Speaking during the event, Bundotich, who is affiliated with the Ikaika Sports Agency and Adidas Running team, acknowledged the role of the Kenyan athlete federation for her award, adding that it was rewarding to see her efforts recognised at such a global stage. 

Elated

“I am deeply honoured by this recognition from World Athletics,” said Bundotich. “This acknowledgement reflects not just one athlete’s journey but the collective commitment to nurturing, developing and safeguarding young talents, particularly young girls in athletics. 

“I want to especially acknowledge Athletics Kenya for inspiring, motivating and recognising my work. My work with Ikaika Sports Agency and Adidas Running has always centred on creating sustainable pathways for young athletes to thrive, both on and off the track. It’s gratifying to see these efforts recognised at this level. 

Bundotich becomes the latest in a distinguished line of recipients credited for driving progress and equity in athletics.

The Woman of the Year Award celebrates individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the sport, particularly in advancing opportunities for women and girls. 

The Woman of the Year Award is celebrated as part of the World Athletics Awards 2025.

Further announcements will be made this weekend, with the World Athletes of the Year and Rising Stars being revealed at the awards ceremony in Monaco on 30 November. 

Among those in contention for the awards are Emmanuel Wanyonyi, Sebastian Sambu, and Peres Jepchirchir, who earned slots among the 12 athletes to contest the annual athletics award.

The 800 m defending world champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi will battle Noah Nyles of the United States of America for the prestigious Male Track of the Year Award.

Sawe and Jepchirchir will also be out to claim the out-of-stadium awards after being nominated for the men’s and women’s out-of-stadium athletes of the year.