Three-time 1500m Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon has opened up about the intense emotions she experienced after being disqualified in the 5000m finals at the 2024 Paris Olympics, following a tussle with Ethiopian runner Gudaf Tsegay.

Kipyegon described the incident as emotionally draining, disappointing, and traumatic, particularly because her silver medal was taken away in a moment many observers deemed unfair.

During the race, Kipyegon was seen trying to push away Tsegay, who had veered into her lane on the track, subsequently blocking her. Many pundits and athletics commentators argued that it was Tsegay who should have been disqualified, not Kipyegon.

Initially, Kipyegon had clocked 14:29.60 to secure the silver medal in a thrilling women’s 5000m race. However, her celebrations were abruptly halted when news broke of her disqualification.

Team Kenya’s technical officials swiftly mounted a passionate appeal, leading to the reinstatement of her silver medal, though Kipyegon was issued a yellow card. Upon further investigation, it was established that Gudaf Tsegay was indeed at fault.

“I wouldn’t say it was a disappointment but it was a bit traumatic…to be disqualified after winning silver, I asked myself why that was happening. It really took all my energy and I don’t know how I came back to win the 1500m. I really thank God I managed to come out of all the frustration in the 5000m and win gold,” Stated Kipyegon on Tuesday night after arriving home from Paris.

Kipyegon went on to win her signature 1500m race, setting an Olympic record and becoming the first woman to claim victory in the event three consecutive times.

Clearly, she was able to shake off the emotional turmoil and turn her experience into an inspiring story that will be told for generations.

“It was quite a motivation to stand on that podium as the greatest 1500m runner of all time… knowing that I have inspired many young girls out there. It was a great inspiration to me. I think I have inspired many young girls in this generation,” Kipyegon added.

Kipyegon contributed two of the 11 medals for Kenya at the Olympics, bringing joy to the nation and solidifying Kenya’s status as the top African nation at the just-concluded 2024 Paris Olympics.

Meanwhile, newly appointed Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who welcomed the athletes at JKIA, revealed that the government will host a stately reception for the team on Thursday at State House, courtesy of President William Ruto.

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