Eliud Kipchoge’s name is synonymous with marathon greatness. A man who has rewritten history in long-distance running, Kipchoge’s legacy is cemented by his world records and two consecutive Olympic marathon gold medals. Yet, even the greatest athletes face adversity. His most recent setback came during the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he aimed to achieve an unprecedented third Olympic marathon gold. Instead, he experienced what he would later call his “worst marathon.”
Despite the disappointment, Kipchoge’s spirit remains unbroken. In a recent interview with Olympics.com, the Kenyan marathoner revealed that he has no intention of retiring just yet. “I still want to run a few more marathons,” he said. At nearly 40 years old, Kipchoge’s passion for running and his drive to keep competing is as strong as ever. His commitment to the sport, even after a crushing defeat, showcases the mindset of a true champion.
Paris 2024: A Marathon to Forget
Kipchoge’s quest for a third consecutive Olympic marathon gold at Paris 2024 was highly anticipated. With the tragic death of Kelvin Kiptum, his closest competitor, many believed Kipchoge was the clear favorite. But the race didn’t go as expected. In an unexpected turn of events, Kipchoge not only failed to win but also failed to finish the race, marking the first time in his career that he did not complete a marathon.
“It came as a surprise,” Kipchoge admitted in an exclusive interview. His disappointment was palpable, as he recalled the shock of dropping out of the race. Ethiopian runner Tamirat Tola claimed the gold, leaving Kipchoge to reflect on his missed opportunity.
“I will remember that Paris 2024 I participated, but I did not finish. Those are the memories which I’ll remember out of it,” he shared. For an athlete of his caliber, used to winning and setting records, Paris was a bitter pill to swallow.
Bouncing Back: Kipchoge’s Resilience
After the emotional toll of Paris, Kipchoge took some much-needed time off. He paused his rigorous training schedule for six weeks, using the time to reflect on his career and figure out his next steps. By August 10, 2024, Kipchoge was back in training, although he admitted he was taking it slowly. “I have resumed training for the last three weeks, but I’m taking it very slowly. I want to peak slowly, then try to move on,” he explained.
This measured approach speaks to Kipchoge’s wisdom as a seasoned athlete. Rather than rushing back into competition, he is carefully rebuilding his fitness and mental strength, ensuring he is fully prepared for his next challenge. Although he doesn’t have a specific race in mind, Kipchoge’s focus is on spring 2025, when he expects to return to competitive marathon running.
The Road Ahead: Running Beyond the Olympics
One thing is clear—Kipchoge’s Olympic journey is over. After five appearances and four medals, the marathon legend has no plans to compete on the Olympic stage again. But he isn’t done with marathons. “All the stories have been about quitting when you are up. I want to sell a new story,” Kipchoge said. His new narrative? Continuing to inspire through running and proving that even after setbacks, one can still achieve greatness.
Kipchoge’s decision to continue running marathons is not about chasing medals or accolades but about evolving as an athlete. “Why don’t you just do other things and do it smoothly?” he asked, suggesting that his future endeavors will be about contributing to the sport in different ways, beyond competitive racing. His desire to inspire and unite the world through running remains a central focus for him.
Life Beyond Competition
Kipchoge’s future will undoubtedly remain tied to the sport of running, but he is clear that coaching is not in his plans. “I will do other things than become a coach. I don’t think I will fit in coaching,” he explained. His post-retirement vision is broader, focusing on inspiring the next generation and continuing to promote the values that running has instilled in him.
Kipchoge’s influence on the world of athletics goes far beyond his records and medals. He has inspired millions with his discipline, humility, and unwavering belief in pushing human limits. His famous motto, “No Human is Limited,” resonates with athletes and non-athletes alike, reminding us that with determination and focus, anything is possible.
A Career Like No Other
To talk about Eliud Kipchoge is to talk about a man who has done it all. His journey began in 2003 when he was crowned world 5000m champion. From there, he transitioned to long-distance running, competing in five Summer Olympics and winning four medals:
- Bronze in Athens 2004 (5000m)
- Silver in Beijing 2008 (5000m)
- Gold in Rio 2016 (marathon)
- Gold in Tokyo 2020 (marathon)
Kipchoge’s dominance in the marathon is unmatched. He has won 11 major marathons across Chicago, London, Berlin, and Tokyo, setting a world record in the process. In 2022, he broke his own marathon world record at the Berlin Marathon, clocking an astonishing time of 2:01:09.
His rivalry with Kelvin Kiptum was set to define the future of marathon running. Sadly, Kiptum’s death robbed the sport of this much-anticipated rivalry, and Kipchoge mourned the loss of the young talent who was poised to take up the mantle after him.
Looking to 2025 and Beyond
As Kipchoge resumes his training, his eyes are set on the future, but with no specific race in mind. Spring 2025 is likely when we will see him return to the marathon course, but this time, his goals might look different. He no longer seeks Olympic glory, but instead, aims to continue running and inspiring others in new ways.
For Kipchoge, every race is an opportunity to prove that no human is limited—not by age, not by setbacks, and not by expectations. He has already achieved more than most athletes could dream of, but his journey is far from over.
Eliud Kipchoge’s story is one of perseverance, resilience, and an unbreakable will to continue doing what he loves—running. Though the Paris 2024 marathon may be remembered as his toughest race, it is clear that Kipchoge is far from finished. His commitment to pushing boundaries, both for himself and for the sport of running, ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.
