In the world of athletics, few names command as much respect and admiration as Eliud Kipchoge, the Kenyan marathon legend whose philosophy of discipline, perseverance, and humility has inspired millions.

Known for his unprecedented achievements, including two consecutive Olympic gold medals and breaking the elusive sub-two-hour marathon barrier, Kipchoge has long been hailed as the greatest marathon runner of all time.

Yet, even icons face moments of vulnerability, and the Paris 2024 Olympics marked a pivotal chapter in his storied career—one that tested his resilience amid mounting criticism and personal challenges.

The men’s marathon at the Paris 2024 Olympics was billed as a potential historic triumph for Kipchoge. At 39 years old, he aimed to become the first man ever to win three consecutive Olympic marathon golds, a feat that would cement his legacy further.

The course, notoriously demanding with its steep hills and unforgiving terrain, started strongly for the Kenyan star. He stayed with the lead pack through the early kilometers, but discomfort began to set in around the 20km mark.

By the 31km point, after pushing through increasing pain in his back and waist area, Kipchoge made the heartbreaking decision to drop out—the first did-not-finish (DNF) in his illustrious marathon career spanning over a decade.

“SHUT UP! WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE TO TALK TO ME LIKE THAT?” The interview room fell into a deadly silence as Eliud Kipchoge erupted in anger; each word rang out like a powerful punch, forcing every criticism to fall silent.

Everything reached its climax when a famous athletics analyst publicly criticized him for his failure at the Paris 2024 Olympics—the first time he failed to finish in his illustrious marathon career.

And it didn’t stop there: public opinion in his home country of Kenya turned against him, turning him into the target of a storm of harsh criticism along with baseless accusations on social media.

But instead of retreating, Eliud Kipchoge placed the microphone on the table, raised his head high, and responded with a calm but sharp voice, drawing the attention of everyone present.

The TV station panicked and issued an urgent statement, but what he said next forced everyone to reexamine the entire story once and for all.

This dramatic scene, while capturing the intensity of the moment, highlights the pressure Kipchoge faced post-race. In reality, Kipchoge’s response was characteristically composed. Appearing at the finish area shirtless after giving away his gear to supporters who walked with him, he told reporters, “This is my worst marathon.

I have never done a DNF. That’s life. Like a boxer, I have been knocked down. I have won, I have come second, eighth, 10th, fifth—now I did not finish.

That’s life.” His words reflected acceptance rather than defiance, yet they carried a profound message about the highs and lows of elite sport.

The backlash in Kenya was swift and intense. Social media platforms buzzed with disappointment, with some fans questioning his form after a 10th-place finish at the Tokyo Marathon earlier in 2024.

Calls for retirement echoed online, and unfounded rumors resurfaced from earlier controversies, including baseless links to the tragic death of fellow Kenyan Kelvin Kiptum. Kipchoge had previously opened up about the emotional toll of online abuse following Kiptum’s passing, revealing threats that left him distrustful and fearful for his family.

This compounded the criticism after Paris, turning a national hero into a momentary scapegoat in the eyes of some.

Yet, Kipchoge’s legacy demands a broader perspective. Born in 1984 in Kapsisiywa, Nandi County, Kenya, he rose from humble beginnings, losing his father early and growing up on a farm.

His athletic journey began on the track, where he claimed world championship gold in the 5,000m as an 18-year-old in 2003, defeating legends like Hicham El Guerrouj and Kenenisa Bekele.

Transitioning to the marathon in 2013, he revolutionized the distance with 15 victories in major races, including multiple wins in Berlin, London, and Chicago. His 2019 INEOS 1:59 Challenge, running 1:59:40 in Vienna, proved humans could break two hours, albeit in controlled conditions.

Officially, his world record of 2:01:09 stood until 2023.

The Paris DNF was attributed to physical issues—a back injury that worsened on the hilly course. Ethiopia’s Tamirat Tola claimed gold in an Olympic record 2:06:26, while Kenya’s Benson Kipruto took bronze. Kipchoge, ever the philosopher, emphasized learning from failure.

In subsequent interviews, he announced the end of his Olympic career, stating Paris was his last Games, but affirmed his intent to continue marathons for purpose—raising funds for education and environmental causes through his foundation.

Kipchoge’s response to critics has been one of quiet strength. He resumed training weeks after Paris, focusing on longevity and inspiration rather than records. “I want to sell a new story,” he said, shifting from chasing medals to broader impact, like building libraries in Kenya.

His foundation supports young athletes and refugees, embodying his mantra: “No human is limited.”

Public opinion in Kenya has largely swung back in support. Many fans and officials, including President William Ruto, celebrated his contributions, reminding the nation of his role in putting Kenya on the global marathon map.

Coaches and peers defended him against “disrespect,” highlighting how age and accumulated miles catch up even to the greatest.

This episode underscores the unforgiving nature of elite athletics, where one poor performance can overshadow decades of dominance. Yet, for Eliud Kipchoge, the Paris 2024 Olympics failure serves as a reminder of humanity in sport.

His calm demeanor amid the storm—contrasting the imagined outburst—reinforces why he’s revered: not just for wins, but for grace in defeat.

As Kipchoge eyes future marathons in 2025 and beyond, without specific goals announced, the running world watches eagerly. At nearly 41, he continues training in Kaptagat, mentoring the next generation and proving that true greatness lies in persistence.

Whether he adds more victories or not, his story inspires runners worldwide to embrace challenges, accept setbacks, and run with purpose.

The imagined explosive retort captures the raw emotion athletes suppress, but Kipchoge’s real words—”That’s life”—echo louder. They force us to reexamine not just his Paris story, but the full tapestry of a career defined by unbreakable spirit.

In an era of instant judgment, Eliud Kipchoge reminds us that legends are built on resilience, not perfection. His journey continues, motivating millions to push their limits, one step at a time.