Cheptegei suffers injury in Budapest, withdraws from 5000m

Initially slated to compete in heat one of the 5000m preliminary rounds, Cheptegei's unfortunate injury occurrence has disrupted his plans alongside his compatriot and world bronze medalist, Oscar Chelimo, who was positioned in heat two.

The implications of this development loom large for Uganda, as Cheptegei carries an impressive championship record, boasting three consecutive world titles.

Regrettably, this injury pattern mirrors Cheptegei's misfortune at the 2022 World Championships in Oregon, where he encountered a similar fate.

He sustained an injury during the 5000m heats but tenaciously persevered to participate in the grand finale.

His race began auspiciously, yet his knee succumbed in the eighth lap, resulting in the forfeiture of his lead within the pack, ultimately leading to a surprising ninth-place finish.

Consequently, this injury setback would cause Cheptegei to miss out on several esteemed athletic events. He only returned to the track in July this year, meticulously preparing for Budapest.

He secured victory in the 10,000m finals, marking his first podium finish since the 2022 event in Oregon within the same distance.

This is a developing story.