Why compare Tigst Assefa and Brigid Kosgei?

Brigid Kosgei, the former world record holder, set the previous marathon record of 2:14:04 before it was broken by Tigst. Their rivalry highlights the evolving landscape of women's marathon running.

Tigst Assefa

Key numbers

  • Marathon Wins4
  • World Records2
  • Olympic Medals1

Top honours

  • World Marathon Record2:11:53 at the 2023 Berlin Marathon
  • Women's-only Marathon World Record2:15:41 at the 2026 London Marathon
  • Olympic Silver Medal2024 Paris Marathon
  • World Marathon Majors Titles4 titles (2 in Berlin, 2 in London)
VS

Brigid Kosgei

Key numbers

  • Marathon Wins6
  • World Records1
  • Olympic Medals1
  • Major Marathon Titles4

Top honours

  • World Record2:14:04 at the 2019 Chicago Marathon
  • Olympic Silver Medal2020 Tokyo Olympics
  • Chicago Marathon Champion2018, 2019
  • London Marathon Champion2019, 2020
  • Tokyo Marathon Champion2021, 2026