Triple Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Education by the University of Eldoret in recognition of her outstanding achievements in athletics and her inspiring journey as a world-class middle-distance runner.
The honorary degree was conferred during the university’s 13th graduation ceremony held yesterday.
The university commended Kipyegon for her exceptional contributions to sports and her ability to inspire millions around the world. “Faith Kipyegon is a distinguished middle and long-distance runner, holding the 1,500m and mile world records.
She is the first athlete to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the women’s 1,500m race,” the institution stated.
Honorary degrees are awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields, including public service, academia, culture, sports, and professional domains.
For Kipyegon, this recognition marks another significant milestone in her illustrious career, highlighting her profound impact on athletics and beyond.
The award comes on the heels of Kipyegon’s remarkable season, which included three world records, her third Olympic gold medal in the 1,500 meters, and a silver medal in the 10,000 meters.
Kipyegon, who holds world records in both the 1,500 meters and the mile, is widely regarded as one of the top middle- and long-distance runners in the world.
Notably, in 2023, she set world records in both the 1,500 meters and the mile within a span of just 49 days.
In addition to these remarkable accomplishments, Kipyegon has been nominated for the prestigious World Athlete of the Year 2024 award.
She concluded the 2024 season on a high note, solidifying her position as one of the leading athletes on the global stage.
In 2023, she claimed world titles in both the 1,500m and 5,000m before breaking the 1,500m world record.
Kipyegon’s extraordinary achievements were further celebrated in September when she and double champion Beatrice Chebet received the Golden Plate award from the Academy of Achievement in New York, honouring their exceptional performances in athletics.
