Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge resurfaces online after world record shakeup

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ATHLETICS Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge resurfaces online after world record shakeup

Festus Chuma 15:10 - 12.10.2023

Eliud Kipchoge has emerged from his hiatus after fellow Kenyan, Kelvin Kiptum, broke his esteemed marathon world record on Thursday.

Former Marathon World Record holder Eliud Kipchoge broke his brief hiatus from the limelight on Thursday, days after his esteemed marathon world record was claimed by fellow Kenyan, Kelvin Kiptum.

Kipchoge's silence since the groundbreaking achievement at the Chicago Marathon has been a source of intrigue, as fans and fellow Kenyans eagerly anticipated his acknowledgment or congratulation to the new record holder.

The 23-year-old Kelvin Kiptum stunned the world by finishing the Chicago Marathon in a jaw-dropping 2 hours and 35 seconds.

His performance not only garnered international acclaim but also earned him the title of 'new King of Marathon' by President William Ruto. With such monumental shifts in the world of marathons, many awaited Kipchoge's response, which has been notably absent.

Kipchoge, who last updated his followers on October 4th about taking a holiday in Kenya, took to Twitter to share a post from China. In it, he stated, “One of my favorite things about running is that it unites us all. It fades differences and sharing our passion brings us together. It’s great to be back in China where I have the opportunity to meet so many fans who share the same love for running. I get so much energy from meeting all of these wonderful people which fills me with motivation when I start my training for my next race.” 

The marathoner made no direct reference to Kiptum or the recent marathon developments in his tweet.

This oversight has not gone unnoticed. The internet was set abuzz post Kiptum's win, with praises pouring in for the young athlete's stellar achievement.

 With such an overwhelming tide of recognition and festivity, Kipchoge's silence appeared even more profound. While he is renowned for his grace and sportsmanship, this recent lapse has drawn criticism from a section of fans.

In sports, it is customary, if not expected, for athletes to recognize and celebrate each other's successes, especially when they belong to the same nationality. Kipchoge, bearing the title of the legendary marathoner, inadvertently found himself under the spotlight, with fans keenly waiting for a show of camaraderie.

However, it is  essential to recognize that while the digital age has brought fans closer to their sports idols, it has also heightened expectations for instantaneous responses and reactions.

As days unfold, the Kenyan nation and the global athletic community still hold out hope that Kipchoge might directly address Kelvin Kiptum's record-setting run.

 Whether through a tweet, an interview, or another public gesture, the world remains eager to witness the bridging of two marathon eras – the legendary reign of Kipchoge and the dawning of the Kiptum era.