
Faith Kipyegon Sets World Record in Xiamen Ahead of June Showdown
Faith Kipyegon, the 1500m World record holder, has once again raised the Kenyan flag after delivering a magnificent performance at the Xiamen Diamond League, setting a new meeting record of 2:29.21 in the 1000m race.
Kipyegon’s amazing performance not only secured a win but also propelled her to the top of the global standings for the event this season.
Kipyegon dominated the race from the start, demonstrating speed and endurance as is customary in most, if not all, of her races.
Throughout the race, she maintained a steady pace, pulling away from her competitors and reaching the finish line in a time that etched her name into the Xiamen meet’s annals.
That was close 👀
— World Athletics (@WorldAthletics) April 26, 2025
🇰🇪's Faith Kipyegon clocks the 3rd fastest 1000m in history at the Xiamen @Diamond_League ⚡️#DiamondLeague pic.twitter.com/oKFmzrZnzk
Her winning time of 2:29.21 broke the previous meeting record and was close to the world record set by Svetlana Masterkova (2:28.98) in 1996.
“Close call, Faith Kipyegon just misses out on the 1000m world record with 2:29.21 in Xiamen,” World Athletics reported.
Despite falling just short of breaking the record, Kipyegon’s effort solidifies her status as one of the best middle-distance runners.
The recent triumph adds to Kipyegon’s already impressive track record, which includes many Olympic and world crowns.
The win also marks a solid start to the 2025 season, raising expectations for subsequent races.
Close call 👀
— World Athletics (@WorldAthletics) April 26, 2025
🇰🇪's Faith Kipyegon just misses out on the 1000m world record with 2:29.21 in Xiamen 😤
📸 Marta Gorczyńska for @Diamond_League #DiamondLeague pic.twitter.com/CGTWJhl9X7
Aside from Kipyegon, several Kenyans delivered outstanding performances in various races on Saturday, April 26. Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet defeated Gudaf Tsegay in the 5000m race.
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Chebet won the Xiamen Diamond League race in a classic world-leading time of 14:27.12.
Agnes Ngetich became the first racer to break 30 minutes in a women-only 10km competition on Saturday.
Ng’etich ran 29:27 during the Adizero Road To Records race in Herzogenaurach, Germany.
“I’m so excited, I didn’t expect this. Last year, I missed it by two seconds, so I came back today to attempt again. I’m proud of myself,” an excited Ngetich said.
Faith Kipyegon Sets World Record in Xiamen Ahead of June Showdown