Kenya’s athletics stars received a warm reception at State House on today, October 2, 2025, after their stunning performance at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. The morning was not just about celebration, but also about candid words from one of the nation’s greatest athletes, Faith Kipyegon.
Kipyegon, fresh from winning the women’s 1500m gold, congratulated her fellow athletes for lifting the Kenyan flag high but playfully reminded the men that they have work to do.
“The women did very well, we brought six gold medals. The men, however, only managed one. We are asking them to pull up their socks,” she quipped, drawing laughter from President William Ruto, athletes, and officials gathered at the event.
In a lighthearted moment, she also revealed the behind-the-scenes role played by Kenya’s Ambassador to Japan, Moi Lemoshira, in Emmanuel Wanyonyi’s 800m triumph.
“Your Excellency, we have to thank the Ambassador. He went out of his way to find ugali for Wanyonyi. Honestly, I don’t think we would have won that gold if he hadn’t fueled him with ugali,” Kipyegon said, sending the audience into fits of laughter.
Kenya’s Medal Glory
Kenya finished second in the overall medal standings at the championships, which ran from September 13 to 21 at the Japan National Stadium. The team scooped seven gold, two silver, and two bronze medals. The United States topped the table with 12 golds, while Canada, the Netherlands, and Spain rounded off the top five.
Kenyan women were once again the backbone of the country’s success. Beatrice Chebet completed an exceptional 10,000m and 5,000m double. Kipyegon extended her legendary career with victory in the 1500m, while Dorcus Ewoi made it a Kenyan 1-2 by claiming silver.
In the marathon, Peres Jepchirchir outkicked Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa in a dramatic finish. Faith Cherotich stormed to gold in the 3000m steeplechase, while Lilian Odira shocked the world with her 800m victory, clocking 1:54.62 to set a new championship record.
Wanyonyi Stands Tall for the Men
The men’s biggest moment came courtesy of Emmanuel Wanyonyi, who powered home in the 800m with a blistering 1:41.86. His gold was Kenya’s seventh and final top prize of the meet.
Reynold Cheruiyot and Edmund Serem also flew the flag, each claiming bronze in the men’s 1500m and 3000m steeplechase respectively.
While the women clearly dominated, Kipyegon’s rallying call to the men highlighted a healthy competitiveness within the team. For Kenya, Tokyo 2025 was a reminder of its unrivaled middle- and long-distance pedigree—and of the personalities who keep the nation smiling even as they conquer the world.
