2023 World Champs: Cheptegei likely concludes season following Budapest triumph

Joshua Cheptegei, Uganda's most accomplished long-distance runner, may have reached the end of his athletics season after a stellar performance in Budapest, Hungary.

Cheptegei's remarkable time of 27:51:42 secured victory, surpassing Kenya's Daniel Ebenyo and Ethiopia's Selemon Barega, who secured second and third positions, respectively.

This win marked his successful defence of the 10,000m title and an unprecedented three-peat at the World Athletics Championship.

This triumph signals the culmination of the Olympic gold medalist's competitive endeavours for the season.

Cheptegei conveyed this sentiment through a post on his official Twitter account, implying that the victory was an ideal conclusion to his season.

"I am filled with excitement and pride as I secure my third consecutive world title! This victory marks the optimal conclusion to my season," Cheptegei's tweet read.

Acknowledging the collective effort behind his achievements, he added: "I take pride in the exceptional team supporting me."

"Through our collaborative work, we've achieved this third medal. Thank you for your unwavering support," Cheptegei added.

Born in Kapchorwa, Cheptegei encountered challenges in form this season, securing a fourth place at the World Cross Country Championships earlier in the year.

His performance in the two Diamond League appearances placed him second and fourth, respectively.

The Diamond League series encompasses four remaining legs: Zurich on August 31st, Xiamen in China on September 2nd, followed by Brussels in Belgium, and concluding with Eugene in the USA on September 8th and 16th-17th, respectively.