By Kimberly Kalusi
Kenyan Athletes Lead in 2025 World Athletics Award Shortlist
Kenyan runners headline the latest nominations for the 2025 World Athletics Awards, with three of the country’s top performers named among the elite contenders for Track Athlete of the Year.
Faith Kipyegon, Beatrice Chebet and Emmanuel Wanyonyi earned places on the shortlist following standout seasons that saw them dominate at global events. Their nomination underscores Kenya’s continued strength in middle- and long-distance running.
Women’s Track Athlete of the Year
Faith Kipyegon — Defended her world 1500m title and also claimed silver in the 5000m. During the season, she broke her own world record in the 1500m.
Beatrice Chebet — Won gold in both the 5000m and 10,000m finals at the World Championships, and set a new world record in the 5000m.
They face stiff competition from international stars including Femke Bol (Netherlands), Melissa Jefferson-Wooden (USA), and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (USA).
Men’s Track Athlete of the Year
Emmanuel Wanyonyi — Crowned world champion in the 800m and also stood out in the Diamond League, recording several top times during the season.
His rivals include Rai Benjamin (USA), Noah Lyles (USA), Jimmy Gressier (France), and Cordell Tinch (USA).
The nominating phase is just the first step. Finalists for each category will be selected after combined voting by the World Athletics Council (50 percent weight), the broader athletics family (25 percent), and the public (25 percent).
Fans can cast their votes through World Athletics’ channels on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Winners of these track categories will compete alongside field and out-of-stadium event winners for the overall World Athlete of the Year titles.
