Gudaf Tsegay is a name carved into record books of distance running—a name synonymous with unyielding ambition. Tsegay’s roots can be traced back to the Tigray region, her birthplace, situated in the northernmost part of Ethiopia. At just 27 years of age, she has a collection of accolades that cannot be unappreciated! From winning a gold at the World Championships to a bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Tsegay is hands-down one of the most electrifying figures in distance running. And at the heart of her journey is her husband and coach, Hluf Yihdego.

Yihdego is a former international marathon runner. At the 2014 Dubai Marathon, he clocked a personal best of 2:17:49. The camaraderie and partnership she shares with Yidego have served as a backbone in keeping her sportsmanship alive. Especially during trying times. Their shared drive and regimen have not just created history but also helped Tsegay break historical records!

Gudaf Tsegay’s impressive achievements on the international stage

Tsegay’s international track record brings envy to seasoned athletes! In 2023, she took the world by surprise at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest. She clocked a time of 31:27.18 in the 10,000 meters. This win was not simply a win; she made her mark in history. And one that will be remembered! But wait, who can forget her golden win at the 2022 World Championships in Eugene, Oregon?

Tsegay bagged the gold in 5000m clocking a time of 14:46.29, there. Her skill versatility must also be appreciated. In 2022, she also bagged a silver medal in the 1500 meters and even won a bronze at the Doha World Athletics Championships in the same category. “Being a world champion was the biggest achievement for me. I prefer the title of world champion over my own records. Nevertheless, I was overwhelmed when I broke the (5000m world) record too, because that had been my dream for a very long time,” Tsegay said, reflecting on her Budapest success. Her Olympic bronze in the Tokyo Olympics 2020 in the 5000m was yet another feather in her crown of glory! But what’s more impressive is the plethora of World Records that this speedster holds.

Learn about Gudaf Tsegay’s World Records

When it comes to World Records, Tsegay commands respect—and rightly so. Her record-breaking journey began in February 2021, when she set the indoor 1500-meter world record with a time of 3:53.09. Then came the iconic and thrilling Diamond League Final of 2023 in Eugene. This is where Tsegay broke the 5000m world record with a time of 14:00.21. She broke the previously set record by nearly five seconds! This kicked off a new chapter in her journey. However, Tsegay’s story is not all flowers and accolades.

During the Tigray conflict, she went through a very strenuous time. But even during trying times, her commitment to the sport did not budge! “Not being able to talk to a father and brothers who had been advising you to strive and achieve more success every day is very difficult. It is even hard to explain. I didn’t talk to them for 18 months,” she added, reminiscing about the period of the toughest trials. Despite all the trials and tribulations, Gudaf Tsegay continues to power through. Chasing new records and titles, her journey is far from over. And with the Paris Olympics, no doubt, the athletics world has got its eyes on her.