Kipyegon sets sights on third consecutive 1,500 Olympic gold after overcoming pre-race drama

SAINT-DENIS, France — Kenyan athlete Faith Kipyegon began her quest for a third consecutive Olympic gold in the 1,500-meter race. After a tumultuous night where she initially lost a silver medal in the 5,000 meters due to disqualification but then had it reinstated upon appeal, Kipyegon finished fourth in her 1,500-meter first-round heat, securing a spot in the semifinals.

Reflecting on her experiences, Kipyegon expressed the difficulty of the situation but emphasized accepting the outcome. Looking ahead, she is now focused on the 1,500 meters, where she aims to showcase her abilities as the world-record holder in the event.

Meanwhile, Gudaf Tsegay, involved in the altercation that led to Kipyegon’s temporary disqualification, won her heat and advanced along with American runner Nikki Hiltz, the U.S. Olympic Trials winner.

American hurdler Freddie Crittenden successfully navigated the repechage round, a new feature at the Olympics, by strategically jogging over hurdles in the first round to allow time for injury healing. By winning his repechage heat, Crittenden demonstrated the importance of listening to his body to maintain elite performance.

In a notable upset, back-to-back Olympic 400-meter champion Shaunae Miller-Uibo of the Bahamas, who has been battling with injuries, finished last in her repechage heat. American Kendall Ellis advanced instead.

The day’s events also featured exciting matchups such as Gabby Thomas vying for a medal in the 200 meters and a highly anticipated clash between Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Josh Kerr in the 1,500 meters. Ingebrigtsen, the defending Olympic champion, and Kerr, the reigning world champion, have been engaged in verbal exchanges leading up to their race.

American long jumper Tara Davis-Woodhall comfortably secured a spot in the final with a leap of 6.90 meters, while defending Olympic champion Malaika Mihambo faced tense moments before clinching a final berth on her third attempt with a jump of 6.86 meters.