Faith Kipyegon (center) is embraced by fans after setting a new world record in the 1500 meters last Saturday.
Kipyegon shattered her own 1500 meters world record just a week after her Breaking4 Mile attempt heartbreak in Paris.
Faith Kipyegon has explained how the welcoming atmosphere she received from the crowd at the 2025 Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon last weekend inspired her to smash her own 1500 meter world record a week after her Breaking4 Mile attempt heartbreak in Paris.
Kipyegon dominated a stacked field that included reigning 1500 meter Olympic silver medalist Jesicca Hull to lower her own world record to 3.48.68, a clear statement of intent just a week after falling short in the historic mile attempt.
Kipyegon fell short of her mile record in Paris by six seconds, so going all in for the world record in her specialist 1500 meters was always a priority to write off her disappointment.
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“I want to thank God — this was really special,” Kipyegon said after the race. “As I said after the race in Paris, I knew I was still capable of running under 3:49, and I surprised myself today by doing just that.
“To be able to run something so special last week, and then come back and do it again this week, feels incredible. I truly thank God for this moment.”
The Kenyan superstar said the support she felt in Eugene played a pivotal role in helping her reclaim her rhythm.
“I almost cried. Everyone was waiting for me — I was the last athlete on the track, the final event of the day — and it felt amazing. The crowd stayed just to watch me chase the world record. They were cheering for me, and I felt at home,” she said.
“That support gave me so much motivation, especially after what I achieved last week. It reminded me that I can still do more. I’m so happy I was able to prove that anything is possible. It really was such a beautiful moment.”
“The last 100 meters were tough,” Kipyegon admitted. “I could feel the intensity, and I had to dig deep and push myself to the finish line. All the other ladies were so strong — I’m happy that when I run fast, they run fast too. I’m truly grateful for the competition.”
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After the more controlled environment of her Breaking4 mile attempt — where she ran alongside a group of male pacemakers — returning to the Diamond League offered a refreshing change of pace.
“I’m so happy to be back in my rhythm and back on the Diamond League circuit. Last week’s race felt more like a solo effort — one woman on the track with 10 or 11 men.
“But today was different,” she said. “It was so special to race alongside amazing competitors like Jessica Hull and Welteji. Being back among strong women made it all the more meaningful.”
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Faith Kipyegon
Kipyegon closed with a reflection on what continues to drive her — and it’s bigger than medals or records.
“What keeps me going is the love of the sport and my desire to inspire the next generation — especially young girls. I want them to know that no matter where you come from, you can still push yourself and achieve your dreams. With discipline and hard work, anything is possible.”
With the Tokyo World Championships fast approaching, Kipyegon’s record-breaking run in Eugene not only reaffirmed her dominance over the 1500m but also sent a clear message to her rivals. The performance underlined her form, resilience, and hunger for more, even after years at the top.
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