Faith Kipyegon saw her remarkable unbeaten streak in the women’s mile and 1500 metres come to an end after finishing third at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon.
The three-time Olympic champion and world record holder was beaten in a tactical women’s mile won by American runner Nikki Hiltz, who crossed the line in a world-leading and meeting record of 4:17.49. Fellow Kenyan Dorcus Ewoi finished second in a personal best of 4:17.62, while Kipyegon placed third after being unable to respond to the decisive late surge.
The result marked Kipyegon’s first defeat in a mile or 1500m race in more than five years, ending a period of dominance during which she claimed Olympic and world titles while setting world records in both events.
Speaking after the race, Hiltz said the slower pace suited her race plan.
“I was excited when it was slow. My coach asked me, ‘Do you want the record or the win?’ The win every time.”
Many had expected the race to develop into a fast-paced assault on Kipyegon’s world record. Instead, it became a tactical contest after pacemaker Taryn Parks stepped aside early, leaving the athletes to dictate the tempo themselves.
Kipyegon moved to the front and attempted to control proceedings, a strategy that has brought her considerable success throughout her career. However, the measured pace allowed several rivals, including Hiltz, Ewoi and Australia’s Jessica Hull, to remain in contention heading into the closing stages.
Hiltz made the decisive move over the final 300 metres to secure victory, while Ewoi also finished strongly to record the fastest race of her career and finish ahead of the Kenyan legend.
Despite the defeat, Kipyegon remains the women’s mile world record holder with her time of 4:07.64 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest middle-distance runners in history. Her sustained success over recent years has included multiple Olympic and World Championship gold medals, cementing her place among Kenya’s most decorated athletes.
Ewoi’s performance was another encouraging sign for Kenyan athletics. Her personal best established her among the world’s leading middle-distance runners as preparations continue for the major championships later this season.
Kenya also enjoyed success elsewhere at Hayward Field. Lilian Odira claimed her maiden Diamond League victory in the women’s 800m, defeating Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson in 1:56.19. Hodgkinson finished second in 1:56.73.
Meanwhile, reigning world champion Faith Cherotich continued her impressive form by winning the women’s 3,000m steeplechase in 8:51.74. Olympic champion Winfred Yavi took second in 8:52.84, while Tunisia’s Marwa Bouzayani finished third in a national record of 8:54.32. Kenya’s Doris Lemngole placed fourth with a personal best of 8:57.89, joining the exclusive group of athletes to break the nine-minute barrier.
