NEWS
Berlin Marathon: World Record Dream Shatters in Final Kilometers
The Ethiopian runs to victory at the Berlin Marathon, but her world record attempt fails in the final kilometers due to injury.
Tigst Assefa has won the Berlin Marathon – but the big dream of a world record dramatically shattered for the Ethiopian. The 29-year-old triumphed in 2:11:02 hours, staying significantly above Ruth Chepngetich's world best (2:09:56).
For a long time, it looked as if Assefa could indeed attack the best time in Berlin. The Ethiopian, who had herself set a world record in Berlin in 2023 with 2:11:53 hours, started the race as a big favorite.
Limping to the Finish
But the setback came in the final kilometers. After kilometer 40, Assefa was visibly struggling and could only hobble along the course. The world record was then out of reach.
At the finish line, the disappointment was great: Assefa collapsed to the ground and could not hold back her tears. Her coach and marathon legend Haile Gebrselassie then had to support her.
In the men's race, the victory also went to Ethiopia. Guye Adola triumphed in 2:02:51 hours, setting a personal best.
