“Ethiopia’s Tsegay Knelt and Apologised”: Faith Kipyegon Opens Up on Drama at Paris Olympic Race

“Ethiopia’s Tsegay Knelt and Apologised”: Faith Kipyegon Opens Up on Drama at Paris Olympic Race

Four-time Olympic gold medalist Faith Kipyegon has discussed the contentious disqualification and subsequent reinstatement during the 5,000-meter Final at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

In an appearance on Citizen TV’s JKLive Show on Wednesday, Kipyegon revealed the events leading to a physical altercation with Ethiopian world record-holder Gudaf Tsegay, who later apologized to her.

Kipyegon described how the brief but intense struggle nearly caused her to be pushed out of the race. Despite the challenge, she managed to fight her way back while keeping her balance.

She finished in second place, behind Kenya’s Beatrice Chebet, who won the race, and ahead of Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands, who came in third.

“Concentration is crucial in a race. I’m grateful for the teamwork from Beatrice Chebet and Margaret Chelimo. When I attempted to take the lead, the Ethiopian runner also began advancing,” Kipyegon explained.

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“She surged forward, and I protested, saying she was pushing me out of my lane. Her pushing became more aggressive, but I fought to return to my lane. It was mentally exhausting, but I chose to forgive and move on.”

Kipyegon mentioned that Tsegay eventually approached her, knelt, and sought forgiveness, admitting fault. Kipyegon forgave her, and they continued their friendship.

“After the 1,500m races the next day, Tsegay came to me, knelt, and apologized, saying it was her fault and asking for forgiveness. I accepted, understanding that sports involve such moments, and we will compete again in the future,” she said.

Kipyegon, who holds the world record for the most Olympic golds in the 1,500m, clarified that despite the misconception, she was proud of her silver medal. Her main frustration was with the disqualification, not the placement.

“I never expected to face disqualification after my race. While many thought I was upset about the silver medal, my real disappointment was being disqualified without knowing why,” she noted.

“I was initially pleased with the silver medal in my first interview, but later, when I learned of the disqualification in my second interview, I was disheartened.”

“Ethiopia’s Tsegay Knelt and Apologised”: Faith Kipyegon Opens Up on Drama at Paris Olympic Race