Kenyan athlete Faith Kipyegon fell short in her attempt to become the first woman in history to run one mile in under four minutes.
Competing at the Breaking4 event, Kipyegon finished the race in 4 minutes and 06.42 seconds.
Although this time is 1.22 seconds faster than her own official world record, it will not be recognized as a new record. The event used equipment and pacing that differed from standard race conditions.
Breaking the four-minute barrier was long believed by many experts to be physiologically impossible for women.
However, after setting an official world record of 4:07.64 in Monaco in July 2023, Kipyegon showed the world that it might be possible.
To achieve her goal, she needed to run at a speed of roughly 24 kilometers per hour.
Although the Kenyan star didn’t break the barrier this time, she still managed to clock an incredibly fast time. After the race, she made the following statement:
“I have proven that it is possible — it’s only a matter of time. If it’s not me, someone else will do it. I won’t lose hope. I believe I will achieve it one day.”
She also shared a message for her daughter and for young girls around the world:
“We can set limits on ourselves, but in truth, we are limitless. It’s possible to try everything and show the world how strong we are. Keep pushing.”