There is widespread disappointment and debate in Kenya and beyond as Beatrice Chebet, a standout in women’s athletics, missed the finalist list for the 2024 World Athlete of the Year Award. Despite her record-breaking performances in both the 5,000m and 10,000m, Chebet did not make it to the final two selections in the female track category, a decision that has sparked criticism from fans and analysts.
This year, Chebet claimed double Olympic gold and set a world record of 28:54.14 in the 10,000m, accomplishments many felt would make her a favorite for the prestigious award. Fans and experts argue that her Olympic victories and world record have positioned her as one of the top athletes globally, with many expressing disappointment over her exclusion in favor of other athletes who did not match her achievements. Observers in Kenya note that the selection, which involved votes from World Athletics members and public social media input, may have overlooked her groundbreaking season【6†source】【7†source】【8†source】.
Kenyan athletes Faith Kipyegon, another Olympic medalist, and Emmanuel Wanyonyi also missed the final selection, leaving Kenya’s Ruth Chepngetich, nominated in a separate marathon-focused category, as the country’s remaining contender. The awards, scheduled for December 1 in Monaco, will now be eagerly watched by supporters of all the nominees, but the absence of Chebet has left a notable gap for Kenyan fans and underscored ongoing debates about recognition for African athletes on the global stage【6†source】.