Eliud Kipchoge's dreams of a third straight gold in the men's marathon were dashed as he withdrew from the race and took a taxi to the finish line at the Paris Olympics - before seemingly announcing that he will not run at the Games again.
The legendary Kenyan runner's previous triumphs in the event in 2016 and 2020 saw him write his name into folklore and he held the world record between 2018 and 2023. However, his foray at the 2024 spectacle ended prematurely as he allowed last-placed Ser-Od Bat-Ochir to pass him after 31 kilometres.
From there, it was clear that the 39-year-old's race was run as he headed off in a van after taking in a rapturous greeting from fans who had lined the streets of the French capital . Kipchoge appeared to have been in contention for the top prize again as he led proceedings after 10k.
READ MORE: Covid-stricken Noah Lyles posts update after being taken away from 200m race in wheelchair
READ MORE: 'Drunk' Olympic wrestler arrested after allegation of sexual assault in Paris
However, a third marathon gold evaded the legendary star, who admitted his disappointment after his quest to defend his title once more ended with a whimper. Previous to this, he had become the third runner in history to retain his crown at the Olympics in the event - following on from Abebe Bikila and Waldemar Cierpinski.
Looking back over the experience in Paris, Kipchoge admitted: "It is a difficult time for me. Today was a tough day at the office. It's like boxing. You can go to a training camp for five months and be knocked out in two seconds. But life will continue.
"This is my worst marathon. I have never done a DNF (did not finish). Like a boxer, I have been knocked down, I have won, I have come second, eighth, 10th, fifth – now I did not finish. That's life."
Follow us on X for th e best and latest in sports news
As for the prospect of appearing at another Olympics , the Kenyan hero seemingly ruled out the prospect, adding: "You will see me in a different way, maybe giving people motivation, but I will not run. I don't know what next. I need to go back [home], sit down, try to figure my 21 years of running at high level. I need to evolve and feature in other things."
Reflecting on his countryman's performance in Paris, Kenenisa Bekele - who finished in 39th place - said: "It is fantastic that Ethiopia won the race. Tola is very strong, and I am happy for him.
"People have been talking about me and Kipchoge, but you see it was the young generation today. These guys are stronger than us. These days there are many younger and stronger athletes, so it was tough to challenge them."
Meanwhile, event victor Tamirat Tola spoke with pride after earning gold, adding: "I was the reserve in the Ethiopian team, but when Sisay had injuries, then I had a chance to represent him. I was fully prepared and knew I could fulfil my dream. This is the Olympics and it is not easy to win the Olympic Games, not at all. I am very proud, very happy."
Most Popular
Comments / 0