Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay smashes world record in women’s 5,000 meters at Prefontaine Classic
Gudaf Tsegay of Ethiopia sets a new world record in the women's 5000m during the Wanda Diamond League Final at Hayward Field with a time of 14:00.21 to claim the title at The Prefontaine Classic. Photo by Howard Lao
By Maddie Lang
The women’s 5,000 meters had the Hayward Field crowd on its feet Sunday afternoon at The Prefontaine Classic as Gudaf Tsegay won the Diamond League championship by shaving more than five seconds off the world record that Faith Kipyegon had set just over three months ago.
Tsegay finished in 14:00.21. Kipyegon won the 5,000 at the Paris Diamond League in June in 14:05.20, and that was more than a second faster than the previous mark.
“My focus today is the world record,” Tsegay said.
Tsegay took the lead with two and a half laps to go. Her final three laps became quicker and quicker. Her lap 10 split was 73, her lap 11 split was 65.61, and her final lap was a brisk 64.55.
As she came across the finish line, she fell into the arms of her husband and coach. He picked her up and showed her to the crowd, which cheered loudly.
Right behind her was Beatrice Chebet in a time of 14:05.92, the third fastest time in history.
“I did not expect to run such a crazy race,” Chebet said. “It’s very tough. But I’ve done good. I’ve managed 14:05—not easy. 14:05 was the world record, you know. So for me, I am so happy.”
Tsegay’s time almost requires an attempt to break 14 minutes. She said she is hungry for a strong performance in Paris next year and “will try” for that under 14 time.