Emmanuel Wanyonyi has detailed what pushed him to become the youngest Kenyan to win the men's 800m title at the Olympic Games.
Newly-crowned Olympic 800m champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi believes having a strong faith and prayers are the reason for his success in Paris.
Wanyonyi etched his name in the annals of the spectacular 800m runners after he became the youngest Kenyan to ever win an Olympic title. He clocked 1:41.19 to threaten David Rudisha’s world record time of 1:40.91. He just turned 20 and has already been tipped to break Rudisha’s world record.
While training played a part in his success, Wanyonyi believes he would not have triumphed against his rivals if he did not have strong faith.
06:34 - 14.08.2024
Comparing Team Kenya's performance: Paris Olympics vs delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympics
Team Kenya's performance at the Paris Olympic Games was slightly better than the performance at the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympics with the LA 2028 Olympic Games promising better results.
Follow the Pulse Sports Kenya X handle for more updates.
“The competition was okay and I want to thank God first for giving me the strength to fight and emerge as the champion because the races were very competitive and God helped us to win and return home safely,” Wanyonyi said.
“I want to thank Kenyans for their support through prayers. The prayers worked wonders and gave us the morale to go and compete. So, we were competing knowing that you were praying for us and depending on us to represent Kenya well,” he added.
“I thank everyone who prayed for us and we thank the coaches and the government for supporting us. We were treated well hence our great performance on the Olympic stage,” he said.
18:30 - 14.08.2024
Ferdinand Omanyala reacts to unexpected setback at Paris Olympic Games
Ferdinand Omanyala has reacted to his performance at the Paris Olympic Games, where he bowed out of the men's 100m title contention after finishing eighth in the semifinal.
Kenya won 11 medals, four gold, two silver and five bronze medals.