The Ethiopian Athletics Federation has confirmed the passing of decorated long-distance runner Yebrgual Melese, who died at 36 following a sudden medical emergency during a routine training session this Tuesday. The multiple international marathon champion was in active preparation for an upcoming race scheduled to take place in Ottawa on May 24 when the unexpected incident unfolded.
Local media reports confirm that Melese suffered the acute health crisis while training in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital. Emergency personnel transported her quickly to a nearby medical facility, but clinical teams were unable to save her life despite all resuscitation and treatment efforts. No additional details surrounding the exact cause of her death have been released to the public as of this reporting.
In an official statement released following the announcement of Melese’s passing, the Ethiopian Athletics Federation shared its profound grief over the loss of the celebrated athlete. “We express our deep sorrow over the sudden passing of this heroic athlete and offer our sincerest condolences to her family, friends and fans across the globe,” the statement read.
Melese built a legendary competitive career spanning more than a decade, claiming prestigious marathon titles in major global cities including Houston, Prague, and Shanghai. Her 2018 victory at the Shanghai Marathon remains one of her most iconic career wins. She notched her strongest performance in the World Marathon Majors circuit in 2015 — the same year she secured wins in Houston and Prague — when she crossed the finish line in second place at the Chicago Marathon. Her most recent appearance in competitive racing came at a Beijing marathon in May 2023, where she was unable to complete the full distance.