PARIS — Sifan Hassan made an unforgettable mark at the Olympics, showcasing her tenacity and strength in the women’s marathon. As she approached the final 150 meters of a grueling 10-day journey that totaled over 38 miles, the Dutch runner battled fiercely against Tigst Assefa from Ethiopia. In a stunning display of endurance, Hassan sprinted past Assefa to secure victory in the last track event of the Paris Games.
Hassan, who previously claimed bronze in both the 5,000 and 10,000 meters, captured the gold medal in a record time of 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 55 seconds. After crossing the finish line, she celebrated triumphantly, wrapping herself in the Dutch flag and reflecting on her remarkable achievement with tears of joy.
The marathon had all the elements of an epic race: suspense, speed, and resilience, set against the iconic golden dome glimmering in the sunlight. Assefa crossed the line just three seconds later to take silver, while Kenya’s Hellen Obiri secured bronze.
Following the race, the Ethiopian team filed a protest against Hassan, alleging obstruction, but the Jury of Appeal dismissed the claim. Assefa noted that Hassan may have interfered with her race strategy, expressing mixed feelings about the outcome. “I didn’t expect at that moment it would happen. Maybe at that moment, if she didn’t push me, I would have the gold,” Assefa said.
Hassan’s extraordinary marathon run is a culmination of her achievements, having earned a total of six Olympic medals to date. In previous Games, she triumphed in both the 5,000 and 10,000 meters, while also adding a bronze in the 1,500.
Obiri praised Hassan’s incredible ability, stating, “She has shown the world that she can do everything.” Earlier in the race, Obiri attempted to increase the pace, aware that a sprint finish would not favor her against Hassan.
Breaking from Olympic tradition, the women’s marathon was held on the final day instead of the men’s race. Hassan executed her familiar strategy of staying behind the leaders for most of the course before unleashing an impressive surge toward the end.
As the race neared its conclusion, Assefa attempted to block Hassan’s path, leading to a brief physical exchange. However, Hassan’s determination propelled her to victory.
Hassan’s journey to success began at the Tokyo Games, where she recovered from a fall during the 1,500 meters to win the race and later earn a bronze medal. This time, despite a challenging two-year period, she was able to complete her marathon after competing in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters within a short timeframe.
Although she didn’t replicate Emil Zatopek’s historic 1952 performance of sweeping the 5,000, 10,000, and marathon events, Hassan’s achievements remain significant. “She’s inspired so many people,” remarked Obiri.
In the marathon, Sharon Lokedi of Kenya finished fourth, while defending champion Peres Jepchirchir placed 15th after struggling in the final miles of the race.
The course traced a historic route reminiscent of the Women’s March on Versailles during the French Revolution, adding a layer of significance to the athletes’ journey through Paris.
The marathon began at Hôtel de Ville and meandered through scenic parks and notable landmarks, ultimately returning to the heart of Paris, where Hassan made history.