Triple Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon came agonizingly close to shattering one of athletics’ most iconic milestones the sub-four-minute mile for women during a thrilling attempt in Paris. Competing at the Stade Charléty, she completed the race in 4:06.42, missing the mark by just 6.42 seconds, but still managing to break her own world record of 4:07.64.
The race was part of the highly publicized “Breaking4” initiative, an ambitious project aimed at pushing the boundaries of human performance. With the support of advanced pacing systems, aerodynamic racing gear, and experienced pacemakers, Kipyegon had every advantage modern technology could provide. The conditions were ideal, and the stage was set for history.
From the outset, Kipyegon set a blistering pace. Guided by laser pacing lights and flanked by precision pacemakers, she looked sharp and focused, staying locked into the tempo needed to challenge the elusive mark. The crowd, fully aware of the moment’s magnitude, roared with anticipation as she rounded each bend.
At the halfway point, she remained on course, matching the required splits. But in the final lap, fatigue began to show. Despite her powerful stride and determination, the seconds slipped away, and the sub-four barrier remained just out of reach. Yet, her time of 4:06.42 not only broke her previous record but reaffirmed her dominance in middle-distance running.
Kipyegon’s performance has reignited conversations around the potential for women to break the four-minute barrier, long considered one of the final frontiers in athletics. Her attempt was a masterclass in precision and endurance, and though she fell short, the margin was slimmer than ever.
The feat also underscores the evolving landscape of elite sports, where technological innovation, strategic planning, and athlete dedication are converging to redefine what is possible. Kipyegon’s run adds to her legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats and leaves the athletics world buzzing with excitement about what could come next.
With the 2025 World Championships and the 2026 Olympics on the horizon, the question now is not if a woman will run a mile in under four minutes but when. And if current form is anything to go by, Kipyegon could very well be the one to do it.
