Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands set a new Olympic record in the Paris 2024 women’s marathon, finishing with a time of 2:22:55 on Sunday, August 11.
Hassan’s victory came despite the challenging course, which featured steep inclines and rapid descents through iconic Paris landmarks.
"Every moment in the race I was regretting that I ran the 5,000m and 10,000m. I was telling myself if I hadn’t done that, I would feel great today," Hassan said.
Hassan, who had previously announced her intention to complete the 5,000m/10,000m/marathon treble, proved her extraordinary endurance and versatility by winning gold in the marathon and adding to the bronze medals she earned in the shorter distances.
She is now the first woman in Olympic history to medal in this unique combination of events at a single Games, a feat only previously achieved by Czech runner Emil Zatopek with three golds in Helsinki 1952.
In a dramatic finish, Hassan narrowly defeated Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa, who took silver with a time of 2:22:58. Kenya’s Hellen Obiri claimed bronze with a time of 2:23:10.
Hassan, overwhelmed by the moment, expressed her disbelief and elation, saying she felt like she was dreaming and struggled to process her achievement.
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