Kenyan star Emmanuel Wanyonyi delivered a stunning performance at the Wanda Diamond League meeting in Monaco, clocking a remarkable 2:11.83 to break the men’s 1000m world record. The 21-year-old Olympic and World 800m champion sliced 0.13 seconds off the previous mark of 2:11.96, which Kenya’s Noah Ngeny had set in Rieti, Italy, in September 1999.

Wanyonyi, making his debut over the non-standard distance, powered through the race with exceptional pace and a strong finish, pulling clear in the final stretch. Great Britain’s Jake Wightman finished second in a personal best of 2:12.77 — the fifth-fastest time in history while the top six athletes all dipped under 2:15.00, highlighting the exceptional quality of the field.

This victory marks Wanyonyi’s 13th Diamond League win and the seventh world record set at the Monaco meeting since 2015. The record is pending ratification by World Athletics.

Wanyonyi’s historic achievement has once again showcased the enduring strength and depth of Kenyan middle-distance running on the global stage. From humble beginnings including herding cattle after dropping out of school to support his family the young talent has risen to become one of the world’s premier athletes.

His outstanding milestone not only ends a 27-year wait for a new world record in the event but also serves as a powerful inspiration for generations of aspiring Kenyan and African champions. It reinforces Kenya’s dominance in athletics and celebrates the hard work, resilience, and excellence that define the nation’s sporting legacy.

Congratulations to Emmanuel Wanyonyi on this incredible accomplishment! The athletics world eagerly awaits his next feats as he continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible. 🇰??

athletics