‘Very Challenging!’ - Emmanuel Wanyonyi Reveals 3 Reasons He Might Not Break David Rudisha’s 800m World Record

Emmanuel Wanyonyi has explained why he might not be the man to finally smash David Rudisha’s 800 meter world record after narrowly soaring to victory in the event at the Oslo Diamond League last Thursday.

Wanyonyi, who is the reigning Olympic champion, holds the joint second fastest ever time recorded in the event alongside Wilson Kipketer of Denmark, and is a two-time Diamond League champion.

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Wanyonyi admitted the current landscape in the men’s 800m is significantly more competitive than in previous years.

“The 800 meters is very competitive—especially this year. Some guys are coming out of nowhere,” he said.

At the Kingston Grand Slam in April, Wanyonyi was edged out of the top spot by Marco Arop, despite strong form. In Rabat, he finished third in 1:43.37, falling behind the lead group late in the race.

Even after clocking an impressive 1:42.78 to win the Oslo Diamond League, he emphasized how close the field was, barely holding off Mohamed Attaoui (1:42.90).

“This field was very fast for me, but today my body wasn’t feeling great,” he added. “Running 1:42 in a race like this isn’t easy, but it shows my preparation is going well.”

Wanyonyi acknowledged that elite-level performance is more than just mere talent.

“The 800m is very challenging. It’s tactical, competitive, and unpredictable,” he explained.

Having already competed extensively this season, he hinted at fatigue and minor physical struggles that can derail world-record-level performances.

Despite admiration from the man himself, Wanyonyi is not letting it distract him. David Rudisha has previously heaped praise on the youngster, stating:

“Wanyonyi is a young, talented athlete. He has so much potential and all he needs to do is fine‑tune his craft.”

“It was special to see Wanyonyi run a 1:41 race. Being able to dominate and clock that time is impressive,” Rudisha said after Wanyonyi had set a mind-boggling world lead at the Kenya trials for the 2024 Paris Olympics last June.

“He always shows his bravery and confidence whenever he steps on the track.”

But Wanyonyi is keeping things in perspective.

“Maybe someone could run under 1:40. It might not be me, it might not be anyone right now—but it’s possible.”

With the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo on the horizon, Wanyonyi is choosing to focus on podium finishes over time chasing.

“I’m aiming for Tokyo—any medal would be a dream.”

While he may not be chasing the clock like Rudisha once did, Wanyonyi remains a formidable figure in the 800 meters—and a medal favorite wherever he races.