Beatrice Chebet of Kenya upset the favourites to win her maiden Olympic gold in the women’s 5,000m at Paris 2024 on Monday.
Chebet produced a blistering final sprint to cross the line in 14 minutes 28.56 seconds, narrowly ahead of compatriot Faith Kipyegon, who had to fight back for her title.
Kipyegon was initially disqualified for obstruction but later reinstated as silver medallist following an appeal.
Defending champion Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands took bronze in 14:30.61, with Italy’s Nadia Battocletti fourth in a national record 14:31.64.
The race had been billed as a showdown between the three fastest women in history over the distance – Hassan, world champion Kipyegon and world record holder Gudaf Tsegay of Ethiopia.
But Chebet upset the odds with a perfectly-judged run, staying with the leaders before unleashing a devastating run in the home straight.
There was drama with two laps remaining as Kipyegon and Tsegay jostled for position, leading to the former’s temporary disqualification.
Chebet’s victory denied her more decorated rivals in their bids for multiple golds at these Games.
The 23-year-old adds Olympic gold to her world championship silver and bronze medals over 5,000m, marking her first major global title in the event.
