Kenya has emerged as a powerhouse in global athletics, with its female runners leading the charge at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. The East African nation secured second place in the medal table, trailing only the United States, thanks to an extraordinary performance by its women athletes. Out of Kenya’s seven gold medals, six were won by female runners, dominating events ranging from the 800m to the marathon. The championships witnessed historic moments, including Lilian Odira’s stunning victory in the 800m, where she shattered a 42-year-old championship record and her personal best by nearly two seconds. Odira, alongside 1500m champion Faith Kipyegon and marathon winner Peres Jepchirchir, all mothers, showcased that motherhood is no barrier to athletic excellence. Former world 800m champion Janeth Jepkosgei highlighted the cultural shift in Kenyan athletics, emphasizing that these athletes are role models for young African girls, proving that they can excel even after starting families. Beatrice Chebet, the reigning Olympic champion and world record holder, achieved the rare 5,000m-10,000m double, becoming only the third woman in history to do so at a World Championships. Faith Kipyegon, who won her fourth world 1500m title, matched the legendary Hicham El Guerrouj’s record, further cementing her legacy. While Kenya’s women athletes soared, Emmanuel Wanyonyi was the sole male gold medalist, adding the world 800m crown to his Olympic title. The championships also saw Botswana and Tanzania making history with their first-ever gold medals in the men’s 4x400m relay and marathon, respectively. Kenya’s success at the championships underscores a golden era for its female athletes, inspiring a new generation and challenging cultural norms.
