Ethiopia’s Tamirat Tola made track and field history at the Men’s Marathon finals in Paris in more ways than one. The 2016 Rio Olympics bronze medalist made a triumphant return to the top after finishing the marathon in 2:06:26. Not only did the long-distance runner establish a new record, but he also defeated defending champion Eliud Kipchoge.

The victory ended Kenya’s iron grip on the Olympic marathon event. Tola celebrated with silver medalist Bashir Abdi of Belgium and bronze medalist Benson Kipruto of Kenya after the historic performance. Running since 2013, the 32-year-old chased Olympic gold for over a decade before winning it at the Paris Olympics.

The Ethiopian rapidly climbed the ladder to take its place among the best long-distance runners in the world. However, Olympic gold had eluded him until today. Tamirat Tola made his international debut in the 2015 IAAF World Cross Country Championships. He immediately proved himself a reliable athlete for his nation, helping the Ethiopian team win gold.

The following year, Tola led the African nation to the podium at the Rio Olympics. Since then, the runner has earned two World Championship medals, including gold in 2022. However, the 32-year-old wasn’t the first choice for Team Ethiopia. On the contrary, Tola filled in teammate Sisay Lemma’s spot as a late substitution.

However, the nation couldn’t have asked for a better substitute, as Tola broke Sammy Wanjiru’s 2008 Olympic record. He also once again proved his reliability, giving Team Ehtiopia his first gold in Paris. Unfortunately, defending champion Eliud Kipchoge didn’t have such a fairy tale ending.

Tamirat Tola’s predecessor reached a turning point in Paris

Eliud Kipchoge’s storied career came to a disappointing end in the finals of the Men’s Marathon in Paris. “It is a difficult time for me… This is my worst marathon. I have never done a DNF (did not finish),” the 4x Olympic medalist told Olympics.com after the race. Unfortunately, the Kenyan missed his historic Olympic treble, dropping out after an hour and a half of running.

The 39-year-old felt discomfort in his waist shortly after crossing the hour mark and couldn’t continue despite his best efforts. Tamirat Tola’s predecessor also retired from the Olympics. “You will see me in a different way, maybe giving people motivation, but I will not run.” the legendary marathon runner told Olympics.com when asked about LA 2028.

However, while Eliud Kipchoge’s career came to a close, Tamirat Tola announced his arrival at the top. Will the 32-year-old be able to replicate Kipchoge’s historic Olympic achievements going forward? Tell us what you believe in the comments.