Kenya's Faith Kipyegon Nominated for 3rd Laureus Award

Faith Kipyegon just proved that some athletes only get better with time.

The Kenyan track star has been nominated for the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year for the third year running, placing her alongside the world's greatest female athletes. The announcement came Tuesday in Madrid, celebrating a 2025 season where Kipyegon redefined what's possible in middle-distance running.

Her achievements read like a highlight reel. In Tokyo, she secured her fourth World Championship gold medal in the 1500m, making history in the process. On July 5 in Eugene, she shattered her own 1500m world record with a stunning time of 3:48.68.

But she didn't stop there. Kipyegon set a new African record in the 3000m, clocking 8:07.04, the second-fastest time ever recorded. She also claimed silver in the 5000m at the World Championships, showing her versatility across distances.

The competition for the award is fierce. Spain's Aitana Bonmatí won her third consecutive Ballon d'Or Féminin, while America's Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone broke the 400m championship record. Swimmer Katie Ledecky became the first person to win seven consecutive world titles in a single event, and tennis star Aryna Sabalenka defended her US Open title while holding the world number one ranking.

Why This Inspires

Kipyegon's journey stands out because it's built on consistency and grace. She's already won three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the 1500m, an unprecedented achievement. Yet she continues pushing her own limits, competing against herself as much as anyone else.

At a time when athletic careers are often cut short, Kipyegon proves that longevity and excellence can coexist. Her humility matches her talent, making her a role model far beyond the track.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Madrid on April 20, 2026. If Kipyegon wins, she'll become only the second Kenyan to receive the award after Vivian Cheruiyot in 2012, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest middle-distance runners in history.

She's already rewritten the record books, and now she's showing the world what sustained excellence looks like.