Two-time Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge has revealed the distress he endured due to a barrage of online abuse falsely implicating him in the tragic death of fellow Kenyan marathon runner Kelvin Kiptum. Kiptum, a promising athlete who had set his sights on challenging Kipchoge’s dominance in the marathon, tragically passed away at the age of 24 in a car accident in February.
Following Kiptum’s untimely demise, certain individuals on social media platforms began to propagate baseless theories suggesting Kipchoge’s involvement in a conspiracy to harm him. These unfounded allegations deeply affected Kipchoge, who expressed shock and dismay at the slander directed towards him. The 39-year-old athlete recounted receiving a barrage of threats targeting his family, his property, and even his own life. The magnitude of the situation prompted Kipchoge to immediately ensure the safety of his loved ones, as he grappled with the unsettling reality of being unjustly targeted.
The repercussions of the online abuse extended beyond mere fear for safety; Kipchoge’s emotional well-being suffered, and he found himself overwhelmed with concern for his children’s safety, prompting adjustments to their daily routines. The torment of having his integrity questioned took a toll on Kipchoge, leading him to reflect on the fragility of trust and enduring friendships.
Despite the distressing ordeal, Kipchoge remained resolute in his commitment to his athletic pursuits. While the online abuse undoubtedly affected his performance, as evidenced by a disappointing finish in the Tokyo Marathon, Kipchoge refused to succumb to despair. Instead, he channeled his focus towards his future endeavors, determined to leave a lasting legacy in the sport he loves.
As Kipchoge looks ahead to the Paris 2024 Olympics, he advocates for stricter measures to combat online abuse, emphasizing the urgent need for social media platforms to take responsibility for curtailing harmful behavior. While acknowledging the IOC’s efforts to safeguard athletes from online harassment, Kipchoge remains cognizant of the emotional scars left by the ordeal, underscoring the importance of trust and the resilience required to navigate through adversity.
