Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge has stirred speculation about his possible retirement after revealing that he will make a “huge announcement” following Sunday’s New York Marathon. The Kenyan icon, who turns 41 next week, hinted that the upcoming race might mark the end of his remarkable marathon career.
Kipchoge will line up among a strong field of elite athletes at the New York Marathon, the final World Marathon Major of the year. The race holds special significance for him as it will complete his participation in all six Marathon Majors — London, Berlin, Chicago, Tokyo, Boston, and now New York. Over the years, he has dominated the global marathon scene, winning in London four times, Berlin five times, Chicago once, and Tokyo once, while also setting two world records in Berlin.
Speaking ahead of the race, Kipchoge expressed pride in his longevity and motivation to keep competing at the highest level despite the presence of much younger runners. He said he feels blessed that his body still allows him to perform and train at an elite level. “I am happy to still run at the age of 41 and compete with the young people of 20 years,” he said. “My muscles are still carrying me all through training and running, and I am grateful for that gift.”
While he has not officially confirmed retirement, Kipchoge has previously suggested that New York would be his final Marathon Major. He hinted at new projects that will allow him to continue inspiring the world through running. “A lot is in store which I will roll out after New York,” he noted. “It will be an interesting journey to do other things.”
Looking ahead, the two-time Olympic champion and former world record holder revealed ambitions beyond traditional marathons. He mentioned plans to take on unique challenges, including running in extreme environments such as Antarctica and possibly taking part in ultra-distance races like a 50-kilometre event in Saudi Arabia.
If New York indeed marks the end of Kipchoge’s elite marathon career, it will close an extraordinary chapter that has redefined long-distance running. Over a 12-year marathon career, Kipchoge has claimed 11 Major Marathon victories, two Olympic gold medals, and made history as the only man to run a marathon in under two hours. Whatever his next move, his legacy as the greatest marathoner of all time is already firmly secured.
