Three-time world record holder Faith Kipyegon secured yet another victory on Thursday, easily winning the inaugural women-only 1500-meter event at Athlos in New York City. Kipyegon crossed the finish line in 4:04.4 ahead of Ethiopia’s Diribe Welteji, who took silver with a time of 4:05.58, and Susan Ejore, who earned bronze with 4:06.25. Despite her extensive experience, Welteji was unable to claim the top spot.
Among the other Kenyan competitors, Mary Moraa finished second in the 800-meter race, falling short to Ethiopia’s Tsige Duguma, who won in 1:57.43.
Winners of each event took home Ksh7.7 million ($60,000), double the prize money at the Diamond League finale along with a custom Tiffany crown. Athlos, launched by entrepreneur Alexis Ohanian—husband of tennis icon Serena Williams—represents a significant milestone in advancing women’s sports and achieving gender parity in athletics. The 2024 event featured top female athletes from around the world.
Kipyegon’s latest triumph comes just two weeks after she claimed her fifth Diamond League title in the 1500m final in Brussels, where she set a record time of 3:54.75. Welteji again finished second in that race with 3:55.25, while Australia’s Jessica Hull and Ethiopia’s Freweyni Hailu followed closely behind.
Reflecting on her performance, Kipyegon said, “My goal was to finish my Diamond League season well, and I did. It was a good race, but definitely not easy. I started my season late due to a minor issue, but now I feel strong.”
Notably, Kipyegon has not lost a race in the 1500 meters since 2021 while also being the world record holder of the race and three-time Olympic champion. She is also the reigning champion having won the race in Paris earlier this year.
