Kenya’s marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, often hailed as one of the greatest athletes of all time, has recently revealed that his greatest source of happiness is not his marathon victories or world records, but rather his ability to inspire others. Despite a less-than-ideal 2024 season, Kipchoge’s popularity and impact remain undeniable, and it’s clear that his influence extends far beyond the racing track.
During a recent visit to South East Asia, Kipchoge had the opportunity to meet with many of his fans in China and Thailand. These interactions, where he shared not just running tips but also life advice, deeply moved him. One of the most poignant moments came when he met a young girl in China who cried just to see him. The girl, having struggled with emotional turmoil during the COVID-19 pandemic, was profoundly touched by Kipchoge’s presence. She expressed her gratitude by holding his hand, and the encounter left a lasting impression on the marathoner.
“This is my happiness,” Kipchoge reflected. “When I meet people, especially kids running toward me, that is my happiness.” For Kipchoge, it’s not just about crossing finish lines or setting new records. What truly brings him joy is knowing that his achievements inspire others to reach their full potential. The young girl’s story, in particular, had a profound effect on him. She had lost her sense of purpose during the pandemic but was now motivated to pursue a new career path, aiming to work as an engineer in a factory. Kipchoge credits this moment as one of the most rewarding experiences of his career, proving the transformative power of sport and how it can go beyond physical achievement to touch lives in meaningful ways.
This feeling of fulfillment is something Kipchoge has expressed many times. He’s often said that his mission extends beyond running, and that his legacy is tied to inspiring others especially the younger generation to overcome challenges and chase their dreams. His impact has been particularly strong among young people, who look up to him not only as a sports icon but also as a role model for resilience and determination.
Despite his legendary status, Kipchoge’s journey has not been without its difficulties. His 2024 season was less than stellar, as he faced setbacks, including finishing 10th in Tokyo and ultimately dropping out of the marathon race at the Paris Olympics. However, these struggles have not diminished his resolve or the admiration people have for him. Instead, they’ve motivated him to continue pushing forward, and he remains confident about a strong comeback in 2025. Though he has yet to reveal where he plans to race next, Kipchoge’s determination to keep running and inspiring remains unwavering.
His commitment to his sport and his mission to inspire people to live better lives transcends the world of athletics. Kipchoge believes that the lessons learned from sport, such as perseverance, focus, and hard work, are applicable to many areas of life. He has expressed a desire to continue giving back to his community and the world even after retiring from competitive racing. It’s this vision of sport as a tool for social change that drives him as much as the quest for personal victory.
The marathon legend’s humility and dedication to his craft have earned him respect both on and off the track. Kipchoge has previously stated that he will not stop running, even when his career as a professional athlete comes to an end. He views his journey as a way to leave behind a positive and lasting impact on society. His message is clear: sport has the power to inspire change, and through his own story, he hopes to motivate others to dream bigger, work harder, and overcome the obstacles they face in their lives.
While his record-breaking feats and remarkable victories on the world stage are undeniably impressive, it is Kipchoge’s ability to connect with others, to motivate them to change their lives for the better, that truly sets him apart. His influence stretches far beyond the marathon course, showing that his legacy is not just about the medals and trophies, but about the lives he’s touched along the way. In the end, Eliud Kipchoge’s greatest achievement may not be the records he has set, but the example he has set for others to follow.
