Ruth Chepng’etich, the reigning world marathon record holder, has openly acknowledged the monumental challenge of breaking her own marathon world record. Having made history in October 2024 by becoming the first woman to run a marathon in under 2:10, Chepng’etich clocked an impressive 2:09:56 to win the Chicago Marathon. This achievement surpassed Tigst Assefa’s previous world record of 2:11:53, set during the 2023 Berlin Marathon. As Chepng’etich prepares for a strong comeback in the 2025 London Marathon, she admits that any athlete who aims to break her record will face an extremely difficult task.
Chepng’etich’s new world record has raised the bar for marathon performances, and she believes that anyone aiming to improve upon it must be prepared for intense physical and mental preparation. Her time of 2:09:56 is not only a significant milestone in women’s marathon running but also a testament to the immense dedication and hard work required to compete at the highest level. She recognizes that it will take an extraordinary effort from any athlete to challenge this record, as it represents an exceptionally fast pace over the 42.195-kilometer distance.
Despite the difficulty of breaking her own record, Chepng’etich remains focused on her goals. As she sets her sights on the London Marathon in April 2025, she is preparing for what will undoubtedly be a highly competitive race. The London Marathon will see Chepng’etich face off against some of the best marathon runners in the world, including former world marathon record holder Tigst Assefa, Olympic marathon champion Sifan Hassan, defending London Marathon champion Peres Jepchirchir, and former champion Joyciline Jepkosgei.
Chepng’etich’s strategy for her upcoming race includes a combination of rigorous training and a careful race build-up. She plans to compete in a half marathon event to sharpen her speed and endurance ahead of the London Marathon. Although she has not yet decided on the location of the half marathon, Chepng’etich is confident that the preparation will help her fine-tune her performance. Additionally, she is considering participation in the national cross-country championships, though her involvement in the event will depend on her commitments to her employer, Kenya Prisons.
As the marathon season draws closer, Chepng’etich is already deep into her training regimen. She remains optimistic and focused on her goal of achieving another strong performance in London. She believes that cooperation among the elite women runners in the race could lead to the possibility of a new world record. If the athletes work together, pacing each other and supporting each other’s efforts, Chepng’etich is confident that the women’s marathon world record could fall once again. The competitive field in London, which is expected to be strong, will likely provide the perfect opportunity for such a breakthrough.
Chepng’etich’s positive outlook and determination are evident as she continues to push herself in training. She is aware of the challenges ahead but remains committed to her goal of achieving another victory in London. As the race approaches, Chepng’etich will carefully assess her chances of setting a new world record, taking into account the strength of the competition and the dynamics of the race. She knows that the marathon is an unpredictable event, but with the right conditions and a strong field of competitors, a new world record could be within reach.
For Chepng’etich, breaking her own world record is not just a personal challenge but a reflection of the progress being made in women’s marathon running. She is proud to have set a new benchmark in the sport and hopes that her achievement will inspire future generations of female athletes to push the boundaries of what is possible. As she prepares for her London Marathon return, Chepng’etich remains focused on her training and determined to continue her legacy as one of the greatest marathon runners of all time.
