Oslo Diamond League: Faith Cherotich Shows Winfred Yavi Who is the Boss Again As She Dominates 3000m Steeplechase

Kenya’s Faith Cherotich delivered a commanding performance in the women’s 3000m steeplechase at the Oslo Diamond League, clocking a world-leading time of 9:02.60 to edge out Bahrain’s Winfred Yavi in a gripping head-to-head finish.

Cherotich, still just 20 years old, surged past Yavi in the final lap, showcasing her trademark finishing strength and tactical patience. The victory not only secured her a maximum 16 Diamond League points but also reaffirmed her dominance in the event, having now beaten Yavi in back-to-back meetings.

Yavi, the reigning world champion, finished second in 9:02.76, just 0.16 seconds behind Cherotich, despite entering the race with the season’s best and a personal best of 8:44.39 — the fastest in the field.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

Tunisia’s Marwa Bouzayani claimed third with a season best of 9:06.84, ahead of Germany’s Lea Meyer who recorded a personal best of 9:09.21.

USA had strong representation, with four athletes in the top 10, led by Wayment and Thorner, while former world record holder Jackline Chepkoech of Kenya struggled, finishing 10th in 9:30.49, well outside her best form.

Three athletes — Gesa Krause (GER), Kinga Królik (POL), and Flavie Renouard (FRA) — did not finish the race.

Cherotich's time of 9:02.60 now stands as the world-leading mark and a meeting record in Oslo, reinforcing her status as one of the favorites heading into the Paris 2024 Olympics. With consistent sub-9:05 performances and an improving tactical acumen, her rivalry with Yavi continues to be one of the most captivating in women’s distance running.

More to follow...