Faith Kipyegon, a three-time Olympic champion, had an extraordinary year in 2024, earning Ksh 42 million ($320,000) in a remarkably short period of time. Her dominance in middle-distance running, especially in the 1500m, not only solidified her status as one of the best athletes in the world but also brought her significant financial rewards. From breaking world records to clinching Olympic gold, Kipyegon’s performance on the track was nothing short of exceptional, making her one of the most celebrated athletes of the year.
Kipyegon’s journey to earning such a substantial amount began in June when she competed in the Kenyan Olympic trials. There, she showcased her dominance in both the 1500m and 5000m events, securing her place for the upcoming Paris Olympics. This victory fueled her hunger for more success, and she went on to achieve remarkable feats throughout the season.
One of her most notable achievements came in July at the Paris Diamond League, where Kipyegon broke her own world record in the 1500m, completing the race in 3:49.04. This historic performance not only earned her a new personal best but also a significant financial reward. For her world-record-breaking run, Kipyegon received a prize of Ksh 7.7 million ($60,000). Of this, Ksh 6.4 million ($50,000) was awarded as a bonus for the world record, while the remaining Ksh 1.3 million ($10,000) was for winning the race itself.
With her world record in the bag, Kipyegon turned her focus to the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she aimed to defend her 1500m title. Her performance in Paris was nothing short of historic. She became the first female athlete in history to win back-to-back Olympic gold medals in the 1500m. For her exceptional achievement, Kipyegon received a reward of Ksh 6.4 million ($50,000), further boosting her earnings.
But Kipyegon’s Olympic journey didn’t end with the gold medal. In the 5000m event, she claimed the silver medal, finishing just behind her compatriot Beatrice Chebet. While Kipyegon didn’t receive any financial reward from World Athletics for the silver medal, the Kenyan government honored her achievements with a Ksh 5 million reward. This included Ksh 3 million for her gold medal and Ksh 2 million for her silver.
The accolades didn’t stop there. Throughout the summer and fall, Kipyegon continued to dominate in various races. One of her most lucrative wins came in Rome, where she won the 1500m at another Diamond League meeting. For this victory, she earned Ksh 1.3 million ($10,000). This victory also secured her spot in the prestigious Diamond League final in Brussels, where she clinched her fifth Diamond League Trophy and a Ksh 3.9 million ($30,000) reward.
Kipyegon’s biggest payday came in New York, where she competed in the Athlos NYC, a women-only race event that featured top female athletes from around the world. By winning the 1500m race in New York, Kipyegon earned Ksh 7.7 million ($60,000), her highest cash prize of the season. This victory was the final piece of the puzzle, bringing her total earnings for the year to an incredible Ksh 42 million.
From track events alone, Kipyegon earned Ksh 27 million ($270,000), while the additional government bonuses and rewards pushed her total earnings to over Ksh 32 million ($270,000). By the end of the year, Kipyegon had amassed over Ksh 42 million in just four months, all while remaining focused on her athletic career and preparing for future successes.
Kipyegon’s remarkable achievements in 2024 not only solidified her place as one of the greatest middle-distance runners of all time but also demonstrated the immense financial rewards that come with excellence in athletics. Her success story is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and the rewards that come with being at the top of your game.
