Kipchoge hoping for ‘better tomorrow’ after poor Tokyo Marathon show

Former world marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge has broken the silence after coming in 10th in the 2024 Tokyo Marathon held on Sunday, 3 March.

Kipchoge recorded his worst-ever marathon finish. He crossed the line in 2:06:16, four minutes and 34 seconds shy of Benson Kipruto’s record of 2:02:16. The result moved Kipruto to fifth on the marathon all-time-list.

Benson Kipruto expresses happiness after breaking Tokyo Marathon course record

Kipchoge was initially leading the pack, but he failed to keep up the pace almost halfway, leading to his poorest marathon record to date.

Speaking on his social media handles, the 2023 Berlin Marathon champion noted that there was a need to appreciate the unpredictability of elite-level competition and the inevitable highs and lows that come with it.

Despite the poor show, he expressed optimism that the setback would catalyze future triumphs.

“I can only say that sport is about good days and bad days. Unfortunately, today was a bad day for me. I want to congratulate all participants who reached the finish line, all pursuing their own goals and dreams. Thank you, Tokyo, and to all the fans around the world for all your love and support. We take the lessons of today for tomorrow’s build-up,” he posted.

His sentiments were echoed by his management; the NN Running Team who expressed confidence that he would bounce back to winning ways.

“It’s the unexpected turns that lead you to greater successes. An incredibly tough day at the Tokyo Marathon this morning. Thanks for your motivation and encouragement on good and bad days,” the company posted.

The poor performance evoked memories of the 2023 Boston Marathon where Kipchoge was at the center of criticism after he finished sixth in 2:09:23.

Five months later, in September, he showed the world who is King after comfortably bouncing back to claim top spot in the BMW Berlin Marathon where he obliterated a strong field to complete the course in 2:02:42.

With the Boston Marathon coming up on April 15, it is a matter of wait-and-see as Kenyans anticipate a major comeback from the Kaptagat-based runner. Kipchoge is also gearing up for the Paris 2024 Olympics, and these races will serve as his springboard ahead of the same.

2024 Marathon Majors Schedule Summary

Tokyo: March 3

Boston: April 15

London: April 21

Berlin: September 29

Chicago: October 13

New York: November 3