Kenyan star athlete Faith Kipyegon is set to pocket more than Ksh9 million after shining at the Paris 2024 Olympics on Saturday.
The athlete, who held two records previously, one for the Olympics (3:53.11) and the World record (3:49.04), achieved the Olympic best of 3:51.29.
With her feat, Kipyegon will be entitled to a Ksh6.5 million (USD50,000) reward from the International Olympic Committee for snatching gold in the race.
In Kenya, she is also entitled to not less than Ksh3 million for winning the gold. The compounded win is devoid of any endorsement payout she is entitled to win. Kipyegon previously signed a deal with brands among them Nike.
She will, however, miss out on the Ksh5 million awarded to athletes for breaking the world record. Her feat was an Olympic record and not a world record.
With her win, Kipyegon became the most decorated athlete over the distance with the gold medal marking her third consecutive win.
The gold medal marked the athlete's second medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics after earlier winning a silver on August 5, after finishing second behind Beatrice Chebet.
Kipyegon's win united Kenya's populace from the President to his deputy who sent congratulatory messages to the athlete.
"The indomitable Kipyegon Faith has done it, again! Congratulations on clinching the Gold medal in the 1500M race — the third consecutive in the competition — and setting a new record. You are simply amazing," Celebrated President William Ruto.
"This is undoubtedly a moment of absolute greatness for 1500m legend Faith Kipyegon. With a mastery finish and a historic win, Faith has etched herself forever in the history of the games," stated Gachagua.
"We are greatly inspired by your legendary third consecutive win in the race at the Olympics, becoming the only athlete to ever achieve this fete. As already affirmed, you are indeed the Greatest of All Time, Faith," he added.
Kipchumba Murkomen, the newly appointed Sports CS, celebrated Kipyego as, "What a dominant display of class and technique from the imperious three-time Olympic 1500m champion Faith Kipyegon in Paris tonight!"
"Congratulations to Faith on once again proving your exceptional talent, living up to your reputation, and making Kenya proud on the global stage by winning a gold medal in style and setting a new Olympic record. You've showcased a blend of grit, determination, and unmatched talent. You have cemented your seat at the table of greats! What. A. Night!" He added.
