Wetang’ula hails Kenyan athletes after record wins at Diamond League
By Cy Muganda, August 29, 2025National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has congratulated Kenyan athletes following their outstanding performances at the 2025 Wanda Diamond League, where three stars delivered record-breaking victories in their respective events.
In a statement posted on his X account on Friday, August 29, 2025, Wetang’ula hailed Emmanuel Wanyonyi, Nelly Chepchirchir, and Faith Cherotich for their triumphs on the international stage.
“Kenya’s stars dazzled at the Wanda Diamond League Emmanuel Wanyonyi (800m), Nelly Chepchirchir (1500m), and Faith Cherotich (3000m Steeplechase) stormed to stunning victories with record performances,” the Speaker stated.
Record performances
Wetang’ula highlighted that Emmanuel Wanyonyi won the men’s 800 meters, while Nelly Chepchirchir triumphed in the women’s 1500 meters race.
Faith Cherotich completed the Kenyan sweep by winning the women’s 3000m steeplechase, with all three athletes achieving record performances.
Acknowledging this, Wetang’ula expressed his pride in the athletes’ achievements.
“Congratulations to our champions!” he concluded in his message celebrating the Diamond League victories.
Wanyonyi’s spirited performance
In an exciting finale at Zürich’s Letzigrund Stadium on Thursday, August 28, 2025, Kenya’s Olympic champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi showcased his talent once again in the men’s 800m, successfully defending his Diamond League crown.
The 21-year-old clocked a time of 1:42.37 to win by the narrowest of margins, just edging out Britain’s Max Burgin in a thrilling photo finish that had fans on their feet.
Burgin, who made a dramatic late push from mid-pack, finished in 1:42.42, missing victory by just 0.05 seconds.
“Close call. Olympic 800m champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi holds off Max Burgin and world champion Marco Arop with a time of 1:42.37 to successfully defend his Diamond League title,” World Athletics stated in a post on X.
The Kenyan Olympic team, Team Kenya, celebrated Wanyonyi’s spirited performance.
“Big congratulations to Emmanuel Wanyonyi for winning another Diamond League 800m title! What a race! He beat Max Burgin by just 0.05 seconds, clocking 1:42.37. Talk about a photo finish! Tokyo? He’s coming for it,” Team Kenya wrote on X.