Emmanuel Wanyonyi Hits a Bump in Rudisha's Record Pursuit Despite Diamond League Win

Emmanuel Wanyonyi.

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Emmanuel Wanyonyi has prevoius experessed desire to break David Rudisha's 800m record.

Emmanuel Wanyonyi Hits a Bump in Rudisha's Record Pursuit Despite Diamond League Win

Stephen Awino 14:00 - 14.06.2025

Kenya's Emmanuel Wanyonyi won the Oslo Diamond League 800m with a season-best but cited a majot setback.

Kenyan middle-distance sensation Emmanuel Wanyonyi has opened up about a recent challenge that slightly derailed his ambitious quest to break David Rudisha's long-standing 800m world record.

Despite clinching another win on the Diamond League circuit in Oslo, Norway, Wanyonyi admitted fatigue may have affected his performance after a demanding travel schedule from Kenya.

The reigning Olympic champion had made a strong start to the season, collecting victories at both the Diamond League and Grand Slam Track meets.

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Wanyonyi's Long-standing Quest on Rudisha's Record

Emmanuel Wanyonyi
Emmanuel Wanyonyi is the reigning 800m Olympic champion.

Wanyonyi has previously signaled his intent to finally close in on Rudisha’s legendary 1:40.91 time and every meet now presents that opportunity.

However, his latest effort in Oslo saw him clock a personal best of 1:42.78, impressive, yet still nearly two seconds shy of the elusive world record.

“Today, my body felt a little tired as I have come from Kenya so the travel has been long, but I am happy with my performance against a strong field and pleased to run a season’s best,” Wanyonyi said after the race.

World Record Still in Sight Despite Setback

800M World Record
Emmanuel Wanyonyi has had blistering start to the season.

While the performance may have fallen short of record-breaking territory, Wanyonyi remained upbeat about his form and progression.

His run in Oslo not only marked a new season’s best but also further solidified his position among the global elite in the build-up to the 2025 World Championships.

Wanyonyi emphasized his gratitude for the warm reception he received in Norway, adding, “I really appreciated being here so thank you to the people of Oslo for inviting me and for giving us athletes a nice reception.”

With more Diamond League fixtures on the horizon, the Kenyan star has already set his sights on upcoming races in Stockholm and Monaco.

“I am happy with the start to my season in this World Championship year, and now, I will go to Stockholm and Monaco, where I hope to get sharp and run fast,” he added.

These meets could provide the perfect platform for Wanyonyi to fine-tune his tactics and push even closer to Rudisha’s benchmark.