Ethiopia’s Tamirat Tola has won the men’s marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, crossing the finish line in 2 hours, 6 minutes, and 26 seconds. This remarkable achievement makes Tola the first Ethiopian to win the Olympic men’s marathon in 24 years.

The former cross-country specialist displayed incredible strength as he tackled the steep ascents, where others struggled to keep pace. By the 35km mark, Tola had built an impressive 18-second lead, a gap that only widened as he neared the iconic Eiffel Tower, with the roaring crowd pushing him toward victory.

Belgium’s Bashir Abdi secured the silver medal, improving on his bronze from the Tokyo Games, while Kenya’s Benson Kipruto claimed the bronze. For Kenya, however, the race was marked by the disappointment of seeing Eliud Kipchoge, the two-time Olympic champion, fall short in his bid to make history with a third consecutive Olympic gold as he withdrew from the race after 30km.

Kipchoge, regarded as one of the greatest marathon runners of all time, faced tough competition on the demanding Paris course. Despite his legendary status, the challenging terrain and the relentless pace set by Tola proved insurmountable, leaving him unable to replicate his past Olympic successes.

Tola’s victory is not just a personal triumph but a significant moment for Ethiopian athletics, rekindling memories of the country’s past glory in marathon running. His win in Paris adds a new chapter to Ethiopia’s storied history in distance running and serves as an inspiration for the next generation of athletes.

As the Paris 2024 Olympics continue, the marathon results underscore the unpredictable nature of the sport and the ever-changing dynamics of global athletics. For Kenya, a nation that has long dominated long-distance running, the race is a reminder of the fierce competition that now exists on the world stage, as other nations, like Ethiopia, rise to supremacy.