Twice in a week, President William Ruto on Saturday led Kenyans in celebrating their daughter, Faith Kipyegon's victory.
Kipyegon underlined her status as one of the all-time greats of distance running by sealing a historic 1500m/5000m double at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest on Saturday.
After claiming a third world 1500m title on Tuesday, Kipyegon delivered another masterclass, this time in the 5,000m, to win her second gold in the Hungarian capital.
The 29-year-old bided her time and produced a perfectly calm last lap for the win in 14min 53.88sec.
President Ruto described Kipyegon as a brilliant daughter of the soil.
"The brilliant, exceptional and incomparable Faith Kipyegon has bagged a second Gold in the 5000m at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest," he added.
The Head of state also commended Emanuel Wanyonyi and Beatrice Chebet for Silver in the mens 800m and bronze in womens 5000m.
"A prouldy Kenyan night at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest. We celebrate a second gold medal for Faith Kipyegon in the women's 5000m," said First Lady, Rachel Ruto.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua described Kipyegon as the pride of Kenya.
"Class is permanent. Once again, our star Faith Kipyegon has stamped her authority to remarkably win the 5000m in the World Athletics Championships, Budapest, Hungary. This is priceless talent. Amazing! Congratulations, Faith. You are the pride of our nation!" he said.
Raila on the other had said Kipyegon was one of the greatest athlete ever.
"Congratulations to Faith Kipyegon for her stunning 1500m/5000m double victory in Budapest. In 2023, she's broken three world records and secured two world titles, putting firmly on the map and solidifying her place in the record books as one of the greatest athletes ever," he said.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said that the Kenyan flag was flown high on Saturday night.
"Congratulations Faith Kipyegon; the Golden Girl! Winning the Women's 5,000m race shortly after giving the 1,500m a flash finish is evidence enough that you are the best of our time! Beatrice Chebet, congratulations for bagging the Bronze! The Kenyan flag flies high tonight!" he said.
