Kenyan distance runner Faith Kipyegon attempted to become the first woman to run a mile under four minutes, but ultimately fell short. Her time of 4:06.91, a personal best, was not enough to break the barrier.
Kipyegon was supported by 13 pacers, including two women who stayed with her until the halfway point. The event, organized by Nike, was considered an exhibition and therefore Kipyegon was not eligible for the record.
Despite the support, Kipyegon struggled towards the end of the four-lap run. As she crossed the finish line, she collapsed face down and was met with a Kenyan flag draped over her shoulders. Kipyegon expressed her exhaustion but also credited herself with pushing the boundaries of what is thought possible for women in track and field.
The event’s organizers had described it as a “moonshot” attempt to break a barrier that was once considered insurmountable. Experts, including University of Colorado Boulder professor Roger Kram, highlighted the importance of pacers in helping athletes achieve such records. Kipyegon employed custom spikes, innovative speed suits, and high-tech sports bras to aid her performance.
Kipyegon’s previous Olympic performances have been impressive, winning gold in both the 1,500m and 5,000m events at the Tokyo and Rio Games. However, her failed attempt to break the four-minute mile barrier will not deter her from continuing to push the limits of human athletic ability.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/06/26/nx-s1-5445959/4-minute-mile-kipyegon