How Kenya’s Athletes Reclaimed Global Respect in Tokyo

The 20th edition of the World Athletics Championships has so far been a blast. Since Saturday, September 13, 2025, over 2,000 athletes from 200 countries have gathered in Tokyo, Japan, to showcase their athletic prowess across multiple levels and disciplines.

As of Friday, September 19, 2025, Kenya has already made its mark.

On Saturday, September 13, 2025, Beatrice Chebet secured the first gold medal of the championship in the 10,000m race. She won with a time of 30:37.61, ending Kenya’s decade-long drought in that event since Vivian Cheruiyot’s win in 2015.

It was a victory for herself and for Kenya. It was a powerful start, setting the tone for what would become a series of standout performances.

On September 14, celebrated long-distance runner Peres Jepchirchir took the gold home, reaffirming her dominance on the global stage. Her win in Tokyo this year added to a stellar career that includes victories at the New York, Boston, and London Marathons, where she broke the women-only world record with a time of 2:16:16.

Faith Kipyegon continued her legendary streak, winning her fourth consecutive world title in the women’s 1500m race. She now holds five world titles overall, including one in the 5000m. Right behind her was Dorcus Ewoi, who claimed the silver medal, marking a proud moment of Kenyan excellence in middle-distance running.

In the women’s 3000m steeplechase, Faith Cherotich conquered the field and secured gold, adding another feather to Kenya’s cap.

Edmond Serem, just 17 years old, stunned the world by finishing third in the men’s 3000m steeplechase. His performance wasn’t just about medals—it was a statement of potential, grit, and national pride.

Reynold Cheruiyot also did the country proud, claiming bronze in the men’s 1500m race. His finish added to Kenya’s growing medal tally and reaffirmed the nation’s dominance in distance running.

Kenyan runners haven’t just competed—they’ve commanded attention at the world’s highest level of international outdoor competition. Their performances have reignited national pride and reminded the world why Kenya remains a powerhouse in distance athletics.

There are still upcoming races ahead. To follow the full timetable and stay updated, visit the World Athletics website.

The 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, began on Saturday, September 13 and will officially end on Sunday, September 21, 2025.

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