Kenyans Rush to Tsegay’s Social Media Following Paris 2024 Incident

Photo: Courtesy

Following the widely-discussed incident at the Paris Olympics, Kenyans and Faith Kipyegon’s supporters flooded Gudaf Tsegay’s social media comment section.

The drama unfolded during the women’s 5000m final, which led to Kipyegon’s temporary disqualification.

A successful appeal from Team Kenya was required for Faith Kipyegon to regain her silver medal.

The reigning world champion finished second in the women’s 5000m final, being outpaced by compatriot Beatrice Chebet.

After the race, Tsegay’s team filed a complaint alleging that Kipyegon had obstructed Tsegay, in violation of World Athletics Technical Rules.

An appeal in favor of Kipyegon was later upheld, concluding that while there was some jostling, it did not warrant disqualification.

Despite Kipyegon reclaiming her silver medal, a number of Kenyans were still upset and voiced their displeasure on Tsegay’s social media, confronting her in the comment section.

Kenyans Flood Tsegay’s Instagram Comments

A review by UPEPO.co.ke of Tsegay’s verified Instagram account, which has over 27,000 followers, reveals disgruntled Kenyans voicing their opinions.

Naom Aisha commented, “JUSTICE PREVAILS. Faith got her medal reinstated.”

Kasaya Waida added, “You are only good at pushing others instead of working for the gold.”

Simon commented, “You tried to get Faith disqualified, and you finished 9th???”

The sentiment was similar on Facebook, where an account affiliated with Tsegay, who holds the women’s 5000m world record, saw responses like,

Lameck Tarus’s remark: “We are offering you free training on how to win and not to shove here in Kenya; elders want to negotiate with you.”

Despite the controversy, both Tsegay and Kipyegon moved on and returned to Stade de France on Tuesday morning, focusing on advancing to the 1500m semi-finals.