Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei claimed his third successive World Championship 10,000 metres gold. Despite limited races over the past three years, he dominated the race.
KAMPALA, UGANDA | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei secured his third consecutive World Championship 10,000 meters gold on Sunday. He hadn’t competed much in the past three years, but he delivered a stunning last lap.
The pride of Uganda 🇺🇬 @joshuacheptege1 does it again and becomes the men's 10,000m world champion.#WorldAthleticsChamps pic.twitter.com/aJDrNMb2jB
— World Athletics (@WorldAthletics) August 20, 2023
As the world record holder in the 5000m and 10,000m, Cheptegei faced injury troubles this year. However, in Budapest’s hot and humid conditions, he surged ahead as he approached the final lap, clocking a remarkable 53-second last lap to finish in 27:51.42.
”I am very excited and proud to have succeeded in winning my third world title in a row!! This was the best possible way to end the season. I am so proud that I have an amazing team around me and with our work together we made it possible to win for the third time! And fans, thank you so much for all the support.”, Cheptegei tweeted.
Cheptegei took the lead just before the final round and held onto it. In the closing sprint, Ethiopian Olympic champion Selemon Barega challenged, but Cheptegei stood firm.
This victory places Cheptegei alongside track legends Haile Gebrselassie (1993, 1995, 1997, and 1999), Kenenisa Bekele (2003, 2005, 2007, and 2009), and Mo Farah (2013, 2015, 2017).
Kenya’s Daniel Simiu Ebenyo claimed silver by overtaking Barega, who settled for the bronze medal.
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