In a commanding display of athleticism, Joshua Cheptegei, Uganda’s finest track runner in history, demonstrated his unparalleled prowess at the ongoing World Championships in Budapest, Hungary.
Cheptegei dominated a field comprising the world’s elite runners, including Selemon Barega, Berihu Aregawi, Daniel Ebenyo, and Mo Ahmed, securing a resounding victory and clinching the gold medal in the highly competitive 10,000m final.
Continuing a streak of victories reminiscent of his triumphs in Oregon last year and Doha in 2019, Cheptegei’s remarkable performance solidified his position as the fourth man in history to secure an impressive trio of world 10,000m titles. This esteemed honour places him alongside legendary Ethiopian athletes Haile Gebrselassie and Kenenisa Bekele, both of whom have earned four such titles, as well as Britain’s celebrated championship performer, Mo Farah.
Following this exceptional achievement, Cheptegei, the fastest man in history over both 5000m and 10,000m distances, left the world in anticipation as he hinted at the possibility of bidding farewell to track running.
In a reflective moment after the race, the 26-year-old athlete expressed his emotions, stating, “I am very excited and proud that I have succeeded in winning my third world title in a row.”
He added, “This might be my last championships on the track, which is why this gold medal holds even greater significance.”
Reports indicate that Cheptegei is preparing to transition into the world of marathons. He is scheduled to make his marathon debut on December 3 in Valencia, Spain.