Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa claimed a stunning victory in the women’s race at the 2025 TCS London Marathon today, outpacing fierce rival Sifan Hassan and a world-class field to cross the finish line first in a masterful display of strength and strategy.
From the gun, the race was tightly contested. Defending Olympic champion Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands, fresh off her dramatic gold-medal win at the Paris 2024 Olympics, set a strong pace alongside Assefa, the former world record holder and Berlin Marathon champion. Both athletes, among the fastest women in history, pushed the pace early, determined to break the women-only world record of 2:16:16 set last year by Peres Jepchirchir.
The lead pack also included notable contenders like Joyciline Jepkosgei, Vivian Cheruiyot, and Alemu Megertu, all experienced marathoners with personal bests under 2:17. The absence of world record holder Ruth Chepngetich due to injury left the spotlight on Assefa and Hassan to deliver a thrilling showdown.
As the race approached the final 10 kilometres, Assefa made her decisive move. With a powerful surge, she broke away from Hassan and the chasing pack, demonstrating remarkable endurance and tactical acumen. Observers noted her smooth, efficient stride and calm demeanour as she steadily increased her lead.
Hassan, known for her dramatic finishes and tactical racing, tried to respond but could not match Assefa’s pace in the closing stages. The Ethiopian’s surge proved unstoppable, allowing her to claim victory and cement her status as one of the premier marathoners in the world.
This win marks a significant milestone in Assefa’s career, reaffirming her dominance after narrowly missing gold at the Paris Olympics last year. The rivalry with Hassan, renewed on London’s iconic streets, promises more electrifying battles ahead.
Tigst Assefa outpaced a stellar field to take the crown in one of the fastest and most competitive women’s marathons in history.