Chebet’s decision comes on the heels of a sensational 2024-25 season. During which she cemented her status among the sport’s all-time greats. The Kericho-born athlete held both Olympic and world titles in the 5,000m and 10,000m. She also rewrote history with multiple record-breaking runs.
In July 2025, Chebet became the first woman in history to break the 14-minute barrier in the 5,000 metres. She clocked an astonishing 13:58.06 at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon.
She also owns the women’s 10,000m world record with a time of 28:54.14, which she set in Eugene in 2024.
Also read.
At the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Chebet delivered two standout performances. She won gold in the 10,000m final. She also won gold in the 5,000m final. These victories reinforced her place as one of Kenya’s most dominating track athletes.
In a statement, Chebet said she pushed herself “to the limit” over the last two seasons. She felt it wise to step back, recover, and prepare for motherhood.
Her decision also means she will miss the upcoming 2026 World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida. She had been named a reserve for Kenya’s team.
Kenyan athletics fans and the global running community have already begun paying tribute to Chebet’s remarkable achievements.The fans praises not only her performances but also her humility and resilience.
She joins a distinguished group of elite female athletes. This group includes Faith Kipyegon and Vivian Cheruiyot. They successfully returned to the sport after maternity breaks.
