World record marathoner Eliud Kipchoge became emotional and shed tears as he shared a distressing experience after rumors circulated on social media linking him to the death of fellow marathoner Kelvin Kiptum.
During an interview with BBC Sports, Kipchoge revealed that he received death threats from online users, which caused him a great deal of fear. He recounted receiving numerous messages, including threats against his family and his career.
He expressed how social media platforms were falsely accusing him of being involved in Kiptum's death, leading to a barrage of negative comments and messages.
The attacks he faced included death threats towards his family, threats to destroy his investments, burn down his house, and even shut down his training camp.
Kipchoge shared the pain he felt when his own people, including his teammates, expressed negative sentiments towards him. However, he found solace in his mother's words of encouragement, even though it was heartbreaking to hear her tell him to take care.
Kelvin Kiptum who set the world record of 2:00:35 at the 2023 Chicago Marathon, died alongside his coach on Sunday 11 February in a tragic road accident.