Double world marathon champion Abel Kirui and former world 800m champion Janeth Jepkosgei believe former world marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge will be the highlight of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
The two believe despite Kipchoge failing to defend his Tokyo Marathon title on Sunday, he will still bounce back in Paris.
Tokyo Marathon was won by Benson Kipruto as Kipchoge faded to 10th position. They said Kipchoge has a strong mentality and character and will be the man to watch in the French capital.
Jepkosgei warned that the Tokyo Marathon results should not be used as a yardstick to judge Kipchoge's subsequent events.
“I am happy Kipchoge finished the race and as a country, we have confidence in him. Kipchoge commands respect worldwide and we expect him to make amends ahead of the Olympic Games," said Jepkosgei.
She added: "Despite finishing 10th, he still ran 2:06.52, which is not a bad time. I am also happy for Kipruto for the Tokyo performance,” added Jepkosgei.
Kirui, the former Olympic Games Marathon silver medalist, said we shouldn't crucify Kipchoge for losing in one or two races after dominating the marathon scene.
Central Rift chairman Abraham Mutai said: “I want to congratulate Kipcoge for having finished the race. " That is what we call sportsmanship and we expect him to bounce back."
During the race, Kipruto won the race in 2:02:16, leading an all-Kenyan podium sweep of Timothy Kiplagat (2:02:55) and Vincent Kipkemo ( 2:04:18) who placed second and third respectively.
In the women's race, Rosemary Wanjiru finished second in 2:16.14 behind the champion Sutume Kebede (2:15:55) from Ethiopia.
