Triple Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Education by the University of Eldoret, in recognition of her remarkable achievements in athletics and her inspiring journey as a world-class middle-distance runner.
The honorary degree was presented during the university’s 13th graduation ceremony held yesterday.
The university lauded Kipyegon for her outstanding contributions to sports and her ability to motivate millions across the globe.
“Faith Kipyegon is a distinguished middle and long-distance runner, holding both 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 university stated.
Honorary degrees are awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions in fields such as public service, academia, culture, sports, and other professional domains.
For Kipyegon, this recognition is another significant milestone in her extraordinary career, emphasizing her impact on athletics and beyond.
This award comes on the heels of Kipyegon’s exceptional 2023 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 world’s leading middle- and long-distance runners.
Notably, she set world records in the 1,500 meters and the mile within just 49 days in 2023.
In addition to these remarkable accomplishments, Kipyegon has been nominated for the prestigious World Athlete of the Year 2024 award.
She ended the 2024 season on a high note, solidifying her position as one of the top global athletes.
In 2023, Kipyegon claimed world titles in both the 1,500m and 5,000m before breaking the 1,500m world record.
Her outstanding achievements were further celebrated in September when she and double world champion Beatrice Chebet received the Golden Plate Award from the Academy of Achievement in New York, recognizing their exceptional performances in athletics.
