Kenyan athlete Eliud Kipchoge remains deeply affected by the onslaught of negativity he faced on social media following the tragic passing of fellow marathoner Kelvin Kiptum. Speaking exclusively to BBC Sport, Kipchoge recounted how he was subjected to threats aimed at his family and property.
Kipchoge, a celebrated long-distance runner, emphasized his innocence in regard to any ill intentions towards Kelvin Kiptum. He revealed that he and Kiptum were slated to compete against each other, but fate intervened tragically.
In the wake of Kelvin Kiptum’s untimely demise, Kipchoge found himself targeted by a faction of social media users who accused him of involvement in the tragedy. Threats of violence against him and his loved ones flooded his online spaces, leaving him shaken to the core.
Recalling the harrowing experience, Kipchoge expressed his profound distress at the malicious messages he received. He spoke of fears for the safety of his children, taking extra precautions to shield them from potential harm.
The toll of the trolling extended beyond mere fear, as Kipchoge lamented the loss of trust and support from many of his friends and acquaintances, both locally and internationally.
The tragic loss of Kelvin Kiptum, who perished in a fatal car accident alongside a friend, serves as a somber backdrop to the distressing aftermath endured by Eliud Kipchoge.
