Eliud Kipchoge Reveals the One Missing Achievement he Needs to Become a 'Real Marathoner'

The two-time Olympic champion has revealed the one final major milestone standing between him and truly earning the title of a real marathoner.

Two-time Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge has revealed the only feat he has yet to achieve that will make him a true marathoner.

The five-time Berlin Marathon champion is gearing up for the New York City Marathon scheduled for Sunday, November 2, and he has given fans a reason to stay glued to their screens and watch him achieve his dream.

The race will also be the Kenyan icon's first competition on American soil in over a decade. Despite turning 40, Eliud Kipchoge remains as motivated as ever, driven by the global attention his storied career commands.

"My preparations have been good, and I’m really looking forward to being on the New York start line and finishing in a good way," Eliud Kipchoge said as quoted by Sports Now. "The main target is to run a good race."

Eliud Kipchoge Ready to Be Crowned a Real Marathoner

For nearly 10 years, Eliud Kipchoge has dominated the European marathon circuit, securing victories in Berlin and London with remarkable consistency.

His last and only win in the United States was at the 2014 Chicago Marathon, where he clocked a time of 2:04:11. Since then, his European triumphs include a record five Berlin titles and four London crowns.

Now, the marathon legend has his sights set on conquering New York to add another prestigious title to his collection.

"I believe when I get a seventh star medal, I’ll be a real marathoner, having run all the major marathons," he explained, referencing the Abbott World Marathon Majors series.

Eliud Kipchoge goes to the streets of New York following an uncharacteristically modest ninth-place finish at the Sydney Marathon, where he finished in 2:08:31. However, his remarkable longevity continues to be a source of inspiration.

"The secret is to be disciplined, have integrity, and be honest with yourself," he said, crediting his enduring success to consistency and self-control.

What Next For Eliud Kipchoge?

Beyond his athletic pursuits, Eliud Kipchoge has embraced a new leadership role as an athlete representative for the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK). He approaches this position with the same commitment that has defined his running career.

"It means a lot," he commented. "I have 23 years of experience in running, so I can mentor young athletes, listen to their views, and take them to those managing the sport. I’m here to do positive things."

Eliud Kipchoge also reflected on Kenya's performance at the recent Tokyo World Championships, where Emmanuel Wanyonyi secured the nation's only male gold medal.

He emphasised the need for renewed focus on supporting young male athletes to ensure a balanced and successful future for Kenyan athletics.