Ethiopia’s Berihu Aregawi delivered a breathtaking performance at the Diamond League Shanghai, dominating the men’s 5000m race and leading an Ethiopian podium sweep.
The Olympic silver medalist, showcased his tactical brilliance and explosive speed, crossing the finish line in 12:50.45—a new meeting record. His compatriots Kuma Girma (12:50.69) and Mezgebu Sime (12:51.86) secured second and third place, respectively, in a thrilling finale that left no room for challengers.
Kenya’s Nicholas Kipkorir, the Commonwealth Games silver medalist, led for much of the race but ultimately fell short, finishing fourth in a season-best 12:56.81. Uganda’s Kenneth Kiprop rounded out the top five, unable to match the Ethiopians’ late-race surge.
The race began with Kuma Gurma setting the early pace, closely followed by Kipkorir and a tightly packed lead group that included Aregawi and Kiprop. The athletes remained patient through the first 1000m, sticking with the pacemakers while conserving energy for the decisive final laps.
Once the pacers stepped aside, the Ethiopians took full control. Mezgebu Sime emerged as a contender, joining Aregawi and Gurma in a commanding lead. Kipkorir and Kiprop fought valiantly to stay in contention, but the East Africans were outmatched by Ethiopia’s relentless speed.
In the final stretch, Aregawi unleashed a devastating kick, a move reminiscent of world-class finishers like Jakob Ingebrigtsen. His explosive acceleration left no doubt, as he powered to victory and etched his name into the Diamond League Shanghai record books.
Aregawi solidifies his status as a major contender in the 5000m ahead of upcoming global championships. The Ethiopian sweep also signals their continued dominance in long-distance running, setting the stage for an exciting Diamond League season.
As the circuit moves forward, all eyes will be on whether Aregawi can maintain this blistering form—and if any rival can challenge Ethiopia’s stranglehold on the 5000m.
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