President William Ruto has celebrated Kenya's performance at the just-concluded World Athletics Championships.
Kenya emerged second behind the United States of America, collecting 11 medals, seven of them gold, to secure the runner-up spot in the medal standings.
In a statement on X, the President said Kenya has conquered the global stage at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, finishing second in the world and proudly claiming first in Africa.
“Well done, Team Kenya! With an incredible 11 medals, including 7 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze, you have written yet another golden chapter in our nation’s sporting history,” the President said.
President Ruto led celebrations, saying the athletes had once again demonstrated Kenya’s resilience and excellence on the global stage.
"You have flown our flag high, silenced every doubter, and shown the world that Kenya is not just a country of runners, but a nation of champions; a people who rise, conquer, and shine with unmatched excellence. I am beyond proud of you. Kenya is proud. Africa is proud. Hongera, Team Kenya!”
The nine-day global competition began on September 13 and concluded on September 21 at the Japan National Stadium.
Nairobi Women Representative Esther Passaris congratulated the team for representing Kenya and placing its name on the global stage.
"Congratulations to our phenomenal athletes for an outstanding performance, securing 11 medals in total: 7 Gold, 2 Silver, and 2 Bronze. Finishing 2nd overall, you've made the nation proud and etched your names in history. Kenya shines because of you!" She said.
Beatrice Chebet was one of the standout performers, winning two gold medals.
She claimed the women’s 10,000m title in 30:37.61 to deliver Kenya’s first gold in Tokyo. She later doubled her triumph with victory in the women’s 5000m.
Peres Jepchirchir added to Kenya’s tally with a strong run in the women’s marathon. She crossed the line in 2:24:43 to beat Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa in a tight finish.
Jepchirchir’s win was Kenya’s second gold of the championships and reaffirmed her dominance in road racing.
Faith Kipyegon also lived up to expectations by storming to victory in the women’s 1500m. The two-time Olympic champion added another global title to her glittering career.
Kenya’s strength in the steeplechase was once again evident after Faith Cherotich powered to gold in the women’s 3000m steeplechase in a championship record of 8:51.59.
Emmanuel Wanyonyi struck gold in the men’s 800m. He clocked 1:41.86, another championship record, to finish ahead of a competitive field.
His win was celebrated as a breakthrough moment for the rising star.
The final day of the championships saw Lilian Odira deliver a dramatic win in the women’s 800m. She clocked 1:54.62 to set yet another championship record and secure Kenya’s seventh gold medal.
The victory lifted Kenya’s medal haul to 11 and confirmed their second-place finish overall.
