Beatrice Chebet has won the 5000m title at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, completing a distance double, repeating the feat she achieved at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The Kenyan narrowly beat her teammate and close friend, Faith Kipyegon, the 1500m champion and defending titleholder.

Chebet and Kipyegon stayed close to Italy’s Nadia Battocletti on the final lap before sprinting away in the closing stages.

Chebet crossed the line in 14:54.36, with Kipyegon just behind in 14:55.07.

Battocletti, the 10,000m runner-up, claimed bronze in 14:55.42, marking a second medal for all podium finishers at the championships.

President William Ruto has congratulated the two for winning gold and silver, respectively.

Describing their performance as “brilliant,” the President said the duo has inspired millions and reaffirmed Kenya’s winning tradition in athletics.

“You have led from the front, inspired millions, and shown that Kenya’s winning tradition lives on. From a grateful nation, we say asante; mubarikiwe hadi mshangae,” President Ruto said.