Two-time World Champion and Olympic silver medallist Abel Kirui has officially retired from competitive athletics, bringing to an end a storied career that spanned over 20 years on the global marathon stage.
The 42-year-old long-distance legend made the announcement this week, expressing gratitude for a clean and fulfilling career. “It’s been twenty years in active sport, always running clean. I think it is my time to say bye,” Kirui said. “I’ve had my time, and now it’s time to support others.”
Kirui now transitions into a new chapter as the Deputy Director of Sports and Chaplaincy at the Administration Police. He views the role as a platform to mentor upcoming athletes and instill both athletic and personal discipline. “I will make sure I use this position to produce even more Abel Kiruis,” he said.
Kirui’s competitive résumé is one of the most distinguished in marathon history. He captured back-to-back gold medals at the World Championships in Berlin (2009) and Daegu (2011), with the latter earning him the largest winning margin in championship marathon history, 2 minutes and 28 seconds. He added a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics, further solidifying his global legacy.
In addition to championship glory, Kirui claimed victory at the 2008 Vienna City Marathon and the 2016 Chicago Marathon, where he edged compatriot Dickson Chumba in a dramatic sprint finish. He was also runner-up at the 2007 Berlin and 2017 Chicago Marathons.
Even in the later stages of his career, Kirui remained among the world’s elite, clocking sub-2:08 finishes at the 2017 and 2018 London Marathons.
As he steps away from competition, Kirui leaves behind more than medals and records, he leaves a legacy of integrity, resilience, and inspiration for the next generation of Kenyan and global athletes.
Written By Rodney Mbua
