This archive report was first published on 24 November 2019.
On November 23, 2019, Eliud Kipchoge was crowned the 2019 World Athletics Male Athlete of the Year during the World Athletics gala in Monaco.
Although he was not present at the gala, Kipchoge accepted the accolade in a telecast interview, acknowledging his remarkable achievements in the world of athletics.
Earlier in the year, Kipchoge made history by becoming the first person to run a marathon under two hours, completing the Ïneos 1:59 Challenge in Vienna, Austria in 1:59:40.2 on October 12, 2019.
He also won the London Marathon in April 2019, setting a course record of 2:02:37.
Other notable athletes who were in the running for the award included Joshua Cheptegei from Uganda, Noah Lyles from the USA, Karsten Warholm from Norway, and Sam Kendricks from the USA.
"It was really a special moment for me becoming the first human being to run under two hours. I am happy to inspire a whole generation," said Kipchoge.
