Beatrice Chebet is ready to make a significant impact in 2025, with her sights set on breaking world records and securing her first World Championship gold. The Kenyan distance runner, who holds the world record for the 10,000m, had an exceptional 2024 season, marked by groundbreaking performances and historic achievements.
Chebet kicked off 2024 with a triumphant defense of her title at the World Cross Country Championships before making headlines by shattering the 10,000m world record in just her second-ever 25-lap race. Her time of 28:54.14 at the Prefontaine Classic in Oregon not only set a new world record but also secured her a spot at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Following that victory, Chebet finished second to Faith Kipyegon in the 5000m at the Kenyan Olympic trials, confirming her position as one of the best in the world.
At the Paris Olympics, Chebet made history by winning gold in both the 5000m and 10,000m, marking a rare double victory. This accomplishment helped solidify her place as one of the top distance runners globally. Her remarkable performances continued throughout the year, with Chebet dominating the Diamond League circuit and finishing the season with a trophy at the Diamond League final in Brussels. In addition, she ended the year by breaking her own 5km world record at the Cursa dels Nassos in Barcelona, further establishing her reputation as an unstoppable force in distance running.
Looking ahead to 2025, Chebet is determined to continue her trend of breaking records and achieving new milestones. While she hasn’t outlined specific plans for the upcoming season, her focus is clear: she is eager to claim her first World Championship gold medal. Despite already winning silver at the 2022 World Championships and bronze in 2023, Chebet remains focused on improving her performance and clinching that elusive gold.
Her ambitions don’t stop there. Chebet is also eyeing the 5000m world record, having come close to breaking it on multiple occasions. In 2023, at the Zurich Diamond League, she posted a world-leading time of 14:09.52, despite challenging weather conditions. Additionally, she set a personal best of 14:05.92 at the Prefontaine Classic that same year, placing her third on the all-time list for the event. However, the 5000m world record currently stands at 14:00.21, set by Gudaf Tsegay, and Chebet will be determined to go one step further in her pursuit of this achievement.
While she has made it clear that her immediate priority is the World Championships, Chebet is not ruling out the possibility of targeting both the 5km and 10km events. With her incredible versatility and proven ability to perform across various distances, it’s clear that she will be a formidable contender in any race she chooses to enter. Her qualification for the World Championships will be key, but Chebet is confident that, with the right preparation and focus, 2025 could be another record-breaking year.
Chebet’s approach to her goals is a mix of patience and ambition. She acknowledges that records are there to be broken and believes that timing is crucial. The 2025 season holds enormous potential for further success, and Chebet’s determination and drive will undoubtedly continue to inspire the athletics world. Whether it’s breaking the 5000m world record or winning her first World Championship gold, Beatrice Chebet is poised to achieve even greater feats in the years to come.
