NEW YORK CITY, USA – In a dramatic display of resilience and legacy, Kenyan marathon icon Eliud Kipchoge completed a historic career milestone on Sunday, 2 November 2025, by finishing the New York City Marathon. Despite a grueling race that saw him finish in 17th place with a time of 2:14:36, the performance secured his entry into an exclusive club of athletes who have completed all six of the original Abbott World Marathon Majors.

The day, however, belonged to his compatriots, as Kenya swept the podiums in both the men's and women's elite races, underscoring the nation's unparalleled dominance in long-distance running. Benson Kipruto won a thrilling men's race in 2:08:09, narrowly defeating Alexander Mutiso in one of the closest finishes in the event's history. Albert Korir completed the Kenyan top-three, finishing in 2:08:57.

In the women's race, Hellen Obiri delivered a stunning performance, not only winning her second consecutive NYC Marathon title but also shattering the 22-year-old course record with a time of 2:19:51. She led a Kenyan sweep, with Sharon Lokedi finishing second in 2:20:07 and Sheila Chepkirui third in 2:20:24.

A Milestone Amidst the Struggle

For Kipchoge, who turned 41 just days after the race, the day was a poignant mix of personal struggle and historic achievement. His time was significantly slower than his personal best, and he fell off the lead pack around the 16th mile (approximately 25 kilometers). Yet, by crossing the finish line in Central Park, he achieved a long-stated career goal: completing the marathon majors series, which includes Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York. This accomplishment earns him the coveted Six Star Medal, cementing his legacy not just on victories and records, but on unparalleled completeness in the sport.

The Abbott World Marathon Majors, established in 2006, represents the pinnacle of marathon running, bringing together the world's most prestigious races. Kipchoge's journey to six stars has included four victories in London, a record five in Berlin, and one each in Chicago and Tokyo. His completion of the series is a testament to his longevity and dedication in a career that already includes two Olympic gold medals and a former world record.

Kenyan Dominance on a Global Stage

While Kipchoge's milestone was a central narrative, the day's top honours were a powerful statement of Kenya's athletic prowess. Benson Kipruto's victory in the men's race was a tactical masterclass, adding the New York title to his previous wins in Boston, Chicago, and Tokyo. The photo finish with Mutiso provided a thrilling conclusion to the men's competition.

Hellen Obiri's record-breaking run in the women's race was equally spectacular. She broke the previous record of 2:22:31, set by Kenya's Margaret Okayo in 2003, leading two other Kenyans to the podium in a powerful display. The double podium sweep by Kenyan athletes in one of the world's most competitive marathons highlights the country's deep talent pool and continued global leadership in the sport.

The Future for a Legend

Following the race, Kipchoge dismissed speculation about retirement. Instead, he announced a new mission: a 'transition' to running for a different purpose. He unveiled a plan to run seven marathons on seven continents over the next two years to raise funds for his foundation, which supports education and environmental causes. This new chapter suggests a shift from purely competitive pursuits to leveraging his legendary status for philanthropic efforts, while still participating in elite fields.

While his 17th-place finish in New York may signal a new phase in his competitive career, Eliud Kipchoge's legacy as the greatest marathoner of all time is secure. His completion of the six majors, on a day when his fellow Kenyans dominated the podium, serves as a fitting, albeit challenging, capstone to a remarkable chapter of his storied career.