Faith Kipyegon’s journey toward breaking the four-minute mile barrier has taken on deeper meaning after her recent attempt in Paris. Though she narrowly missed out on achieving the historic feat, the Kenyan middle-distance icon emerged from the race more inspired than disappointed determined to continue pushing boundaries.
Returning to the French capital, a place of triumph where she broke the 5,000 m world record in 2023, Kipyegon embarked on what may be her boldest challenge yet: to become the first woman to run a mile in under four minutes. Though the goal remains unmet, the race offered something equally valuable lessons that she believes will guide her toward eventual success.
One of her greatest inspirations, she revealed, is fellow Kenyan legend Eliud Kipchoge. Kipyegon drew strength from his journey to break the two-hour marathon mark an endeavor that only succeeded on the second try. Kipchoge’s near-miss in Monza in 2017 and triumph in Vienna in 2019 became a reference point for Kipyegon, who sees the value in patience and perseverance.
“I take this from my mentor,” she explained. “He didn’t succeed the first time, but he learned, came back, and made history. That’s exactly what today was for me a learning experience.”
Kipyegon, already a world record holder in both the 1,500 m and formerly in the 5,000 m, is no stranger to rewriting the rules of women’s distance running. Yet her ambition to challenge the four-minute mile a threshold never crossed by a female athlete signals a new frontier.
“I wanted to try and see how fast I could go,” she said. “And I think there’s more in the tank.”
For Kipyegon, Paris holds a special place in her heart. It’s where she achieved a historic double in 2023, and now, where she has dared to dream even bigger. Despite the setback, she sees this attempt as part of a larger process that mirrors the path of champions like Kipchoge.
Looking ahead, her focus now shifts to the World Championships in Tokyo this September. However, she made it clear that another attempt at the sub-four mile is in her future.
“This was the biggest challenge I had planned for this year. Now I’m preparing for Tokyo. But yes, I’ll try again,” she smiled.
With unwavering determination and grace, Faith Kipyegon remains poised to make history again.
