Kenya’s Peres Jepchirchir produced a dramatic late surge to win the women’s marathon at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, clocking 2:24:43. The victory ended Kenya’s six-year wait for a women’s marathon gold at the global event and reaffirmed her status as one of the greatest long-distance runners of her generation.
The race delivered a breathtaking finish in the final 200 meters, where Jepchirchir outkicked Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa, the world record-holder, in a head-to-head sprint to the tape. Assefa, who came into the event as the overwhelming favorite, had to settle for silver. Uruguay’s Julia Paternain claimed a surprise bronze in 2:27:23, collapsing at the finish line in exhaustion.
Jepchirchir’s triumph brought home Kenya’s second gold medal of the championships and provided a moment of national pride. She described the victory as a product of teamwork and disciplined preparation, noting that the marathon is as much about strategy and resilience as it is about speed.
Building a Legacy
Jepchirchir has already established one of the most illustrious careers in marathon history. In a historic eight-month stretch spanning 2021 and 2022, she became the only athlete ever to win the Olympic, Boston, and New York City marathons. She later added the 2024 London Marathon to her accolades, setting a women’s-only world record in the process.
Her rivalry with Assefa has defined women’s marathon running in recent years. After Jepchirchir set the benchmark in London, Assefa reclaimed the record with her commanding performance at the 2025 London Marathon, setting up their much-anticipated clash in Tokyo. The final sprint was a fitting climax to their ongoing duel.
Strong Performances Behind the Podium
Beyond the medalists, the race featured several strong displays. Spain’s Laura Luengo finished fourth in 2:30:55, followed closely by Uganda’s Stella Chesang (2:31:13) and Japan’s Sayaka Sato (2:31:15). China’s Cuomu Ciren (2:31:38) and Hungary’s Nóra Szabó (2:31:41) also impressed, while Bahrain’s Eunice Chebichii Chumba placed eighth in 2:32:22. The Netherlands’ Anne Luijten (2:32:27), Kenya’s Jackline Cherono (2:33:17), and Portugal’s Solange Jesus (2:33:24) rounded out the top finishers.
For Jepchirchir, this victory is more than just another medal — it is a testament to her consistency, tactical brilliance, and ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most. Her gold medal run not only cements her legacy but also restores Kenya’s dominance in marathon running on the global stage.
