American sprint legend lauds Faith Kipyegon as 'rabbit' after her record-breaking 1500m race

American sprint legend lauds Faith Kipyegon as 'rabbit' after her record-breaking 1500m race

Festus Chuma 07:18 - 08.07.2024

On Sunday, Faith Kipyegon broke her own 1500m record in Paris, earning high praise from sprint legend Michael Johnson.

Four-time Olympic champion Michael Johnson has lauded Kenyan middle-distance runner Faith Kipyegon following her spectacular performance at the Paris Diamond League, where she broke her own world record in the women’s 1500m.

Kipyegon clocked an astonishing time of 3:49.04 surpassing her previous record set in 2023.

The race was a nail-biting spectacle, with Kipyegon and Australian contender Jessica Hull neck and neck until the final 200 meters.

It was at this crucial juncture that Kipyegon accelerated securing her victory with a majestic finish.

Hull and British runner Laura Muir followed setting personal bests with times of 3:50.83 and 3:53.79 respectively.

Michael Johnson, known for his analytical approach to track performances, did not hold back in his praise for Kipyegon.

“Faith Kipyegon is a rabbit for everyone who races with her,” Johnson remarked on X.

This event marked Kipyegon’s second 1500m race of the season coming off a strong performance at the Kenyan Olympic trials.

There, she also showcased her versatility by winning the 5000m securing her spot in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Kipyegon’s season had a delayed start due to an injury, forcing her to miss earlier commitments at the Diamond League meetings in Xiamen and Eugene.

Despite these setbacks, her return to the track has been nothing short of spectacular affirming her status as a formidable athlete in the lead-up to the Olympics.