World-record marathon runner Eliud Kipchoge was visibly emotional as he addressed a distressing incident stemming from unfounded rumors circulating on social media linking him to the death of fellow athlete Kelvin Kiptum.
In an interview with BBC Sports, Kipchoge disclosed that he had received death threats from online users, a situation that deeply affected him, given his stature as a two-time Olympic gold medalist. He described the messages targeting both his family and his career as overwhelming, recounting the ordeal from his home in Eldoret.
“Social media claimed, ‘Eliud was involved in this young man’s death.’ I received a lot of terrible things,” Eliud revealed.
Initially focused on ensuring his family’s safety upon receiving the distressing messages, Kipchoge adamantly dismissed any connection to Kiptum’s tragic passing. “It hasn’t happened, but that’s how the world is,” he stated.
Reflecting on his immediate reaction, Kipchoge recalled, “I started calling many people; I was very afraid.”
The gravity of the situation led the two-time Olympic champion to suspend several family activities as a precautionary measure. “I was surprised to see people on social media saying, ‘Eliud is involved in this young man’s death.’ Those were the worst news to ever happen in my life,” Kipchoge shared.
The online scandal rapidly escalated, with threats extending beyond Kipchoge to encompass his family and personal property. “I received a lot of terrible things; that they would burn my training camp, burn my investments in the city, burn my house, destroy my family,” he disclosed.
Kipchoge further explained to BBC Sports that he and his family chose not to pursue legal action, prioritizing their safety amidst the turmoil.
Kelvin Kiptum tragically passed away alongside his Rwandan coach in a road accident along the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine road on February 11, 2024.
