Faith Kipyegon lands third straight Laureus nomination

Kenya middle-distance star Faith Kipyegon has secured a third consecutive nomination for Sportswoman of the Year at the prestigious Laureus World Sports Awards, underlining her dominance on the global stage.

Often described as the “Oscars of sport”, the Laureus World Sports Awards honour the finest athletic achievements across disciplines. Presented by the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, the awards celebrate excellence, resilience and the wider social impact of sport.

Kipyegon’s latest recognition reflects a period of sustained brilliance that has redefined women middle-distance running.

Her first nomination came in 2024 after a historic 2023 season in which she broke three world records — 1,500m, mile and 5,000m — and won double gold at the World Championships. The performances elevated her status from Olympic champion to global trailblazer.

In 2025, she returned to the shortlist following a landmark outing at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where she became the first woman to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the 1,500m.

The achievement placed her among the most decorated middle-distance runners in history and strengthened her growing legacy.

Her 2026 nomination follows another commanding campaign in 2025. Kipyegon broke her own 1,500m world record and clinched a fourth world title in the event, extending her reign at the top of the sport.

She faces stiff competition for this year’s honour, including American hurdler Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Spanish footballer Aitana Bonmatí, Belarusian tennis star Aryna Sabalenka and American swimmer Katie Ledecky.

Bonmatí won the 2024 Sportswoman of the Year award, while American gymnast Simone Biles claimed the 2025 title.

Three consecutive nominations place Kipyegon in rare company and reinforce her standing as one of the defining athletes of her generation. With records falling and titles accumulating, her story is no longer just about winning races — it is about shaping an era.

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