Faith Cherotich Makes Shouting Claim for Tokyo Revenge Against Winfred Yavi

Olympic 3,000m steeplechase bronze medallist Faith Cherotich has made her intentions crystal clear after storming to victory at the Zurich Diamond League Final.

The Kenyan youngster, who clocked 8:57.24 on Thursday night, says her next mission is to turn the tables on Olympic champion Winfred Yavi when they clash in Tokyo.

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Cherotich’s triumph in Zurich, where she outclassed Kazakhstan’s Norah Jeruto (9:10.87) and Tunisia’s Marwa Bouzayani (9:12.03), was as much a statement as it was a celebration.

"I have been aiming for gold at the World Championships. It's not easy, but I want that world title," Cherotich declared moments after her victory.

Cherotich revealed she was nursing a cold before the Zurich race, admitting she did not expect to win.

"I did not expect to win because I was so weak; I had a cold, but I decided to push on," she explained.

That grit has been the hallmark of her season. From her opening win in Doha (9:05.08) to her world-leading 8:53.37 in Paris, Cherotich has repeatedly shown she can set the pace and dictate the contest.

She also triumphed in Oslo and dominated Kenya’s World Championship trials, making her one of the most consistent steeplechasers in 2024.

The Bahraini, who crushed the field at the Prefontaine Classic in 8:45.25, has been the obstacle Cherotich cannot ignore. In Eugene, Cherotich had to settle for second in 8:48.71, a result that stoked her hunger for revenge.

The Kenyan prodigy also tasted Yavi’s brilliance last year in Budapest, where the Bahraini claimed gold in 8:54.29. Cherotich had to be content with bronze (9:00.69), while compatriot Beatrice Chepkoech snatched silver.

But Zurich’s victory has shifted the narrative. With Tokyo approaching, Cherotich believes her consistency will make all the difference.

"I am happy that I was also able to run another sub-9 (minute) race. I am happy with my consistency throughout the season," she said with confidence.

Cherotich will spearhead Kenya’s Tokyo-bound steeplechase squad alongside NCAA champion Doris Lemngole and double NCAA winner Pamela Kosgei.

"I had prepared well for this Zurich final. I had been preparing myself since the start of the season, knowing I have to defend my Diamond League trophy," she said.

"Now I am going to sharpen up my form in training and I hope to be in good form in Tokyo."