Kenenisa Bekele opens up about Paris Olympics struggles and future plans

Ethiopian athletics legend Kenenisa Bekele made a noteworthy return to the Olympics at 42, competing in the men's marathon at the 2024 Paris Games after a 12-year absence. However, his performance was far from the form that once earned him gold and silver in the 10,000 metres and 5,000 metres respectively at the 2004 Athens Olympics, and gold in both events again at the 2008 Beijing Games.

By London 2012, age had begun to impact Bekele’s performance, and he left the British capital without a medal, finishing fourth in the 10,000 metres. This race marked the start of Mo Farah’s dominance in the event, as Farah won gold and later established himself as a leading force in both the Olympics and World Championships.

Bekele’s marathon debut in 2014 was a triumph, with a victory at the Paris Marathon. However, his marathon career has not matched his previous track success. Since then, he has won only two of the 18 marathons he has competed in, with further podium finishes including second place in the 2017 and 2024 London marathons.

In Paris, Bekele struggled, finishing 39th with a time of 2:12:24, his second slowest marathon time. He attributed his poor performance to a hamstring injury sustained during the race. Despite this setback, Bekele's resolve was evident.

"Despite my best preparations for the Paris Olympics, I faced a tough challenge with a hamstring injury. The pain became intense, and I considered dropping out," Bekele wrote on his Facebook page.

Ethiopian legendary runner Kenenisa Bekele, reveals that he picked up a hamstring injury during the Olympic marathon.

Kenenisa: Despite my best preparations for the Paris Olympics, I faced a tough challenge with a hamstring injury during the marathon. At 10 kilometres, the pain… pic.twitter.com/lXjTwdv85G

— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) August 18, 2024

His determination was notable, as he decided to complete the race despite the injury. Among the 10 athletes who failed to finish the marathon were Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge, the Netherlands' Abdi Nageeye, and Tanzania's Gabriel Geay. Kipchoge, a former world marathon record holder, withdrew after 30 kilometres due to severe pain.

"The Olympics isn’t just about winning medals; it’s about showing resilience and determination," Bekele stated, emphasising his motivation to finish the race despite his hamstring pain. He also hinted at continuing his running career as he responds well to treatment.

"I’m now resting and receiving treatment, and I’m starting to feel better step by step," he added. "Thank you to all my fellow Ethiopians, fans around the world, family, and friends for your incredible support. I ran for you, and I won’t give up."