Eliud Kipchoge Breaks Silence: Battling Online Attacks and Finding Resilience

In a rare and candid interview, legendary marathoner Eliud Kipchoge has shed light on the dark side of fame, revealing the toll of unwarranted social media attacks following the tragic passing of Kelvin Kiptum.

Former world marathon record holder and five-time Berlin Marathon champion, Kipchoge, opened up to BBC Sport Africa about the harrowing ordeal, recounting how baseless accusations on social media left him reeling.

Eliud Kipchoge

“I was shocked,” Kipchoge confessed, reflecting on the flood of accusations linking him to Kiptum’s untimely demise. “To see people point fingers and spread rumors—it was the worst news I’ve ever faced.”

The onslaught didn’t stop there. Threats of violence against his family and property loomed large in the digital ether, casting a shadow over Kipchoge’s life and career.

“They talked about burning my camp, my investments, my home,” Kipchoge recounted. “The threats were real, and the fear was palpable.”

In the midst of the chaos, Kipchoge’s first instinct was to protect his loved ones. With each threat, he checked on his family, bracing for the worst while finding solace in their resilience.

Even everyday routines took on new meaning. Kipchoge’s children, once carefree riders of bicycles, now navigated a world tinged with caution—a stark reminder of the far-reaching impact of online vitriol.

Despite the turmoil, Kipchoge drew strength from his roots. A call to his mother, rooted in a rural world untouched by social media’s reach, became a beacon of hope in a sea of uncertainty.

“It was tough,” Kipchoge admitted, his voice tinged with resolve. “But my mother’s words gave me courage.”

Yet, the scars of online abuse ran deep. Sleepless nights and mental anguish cast a shadow over Kipchoge’s performance at the Tokyo Marathon, a rare stumble for the running icon.

Despite the setbacks, Kipchoge’s spirit remains unbroken. His resilience in the face of adversity serves as a testament to the human spirit—a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is light.

As Kipchoge continues to lace up his shoes and chase new horizons, his story stands as a powerful reminder: in a world fraught with negativity, resilience and determination can carry us through.