Haile Gebrselassie opens up about tense moments and mutual respect with Kenyans

Four-time 10,000m world champion Haile Gebrselassie has made a startling revelation about Kenyan-Ethiopian athletic rivalries and success.

The Ethiopian legend Haile Gebrselassie made a striking revelation about the deep rivalry and interdependence between Kenyan and Ethiopian athletes.

The iconic runner described how the fierce competition between the two nations has been both a challenge and a blessing throughout his career.

The Kenyan-Ethiopian rivalry has become the heartbeat of global athletics, providing unforgettable moments on the world stage.

From breathtaking sprints to the last meter to record-breaking marathons, the clashes between these two mighty nations have captivated the world for decades.

For Gebrselassie, these encounters were more than races – they were the defining battles that shaped his legacy.

“I always say that without Kenyans, Ethiopians can’t do well and vice versa. I am who I am today because Kenyans have pushed me so hard and I can tell you that they are very good and strong in training and competitions.” Gebrselassie admitted during an interview that reviewed his career highlights and rivalries Nation.

The legendary long-distance runner’s perspective sheds light on the mutual respect and camaraderie beneath the fierce competition.

His statement comes against the backdrop of iconic duels that have defined the history of athletics, such as the epic 10,000 meters final at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, where Gebrselassie defeated the Kenyan. the great Paul Tergat iwith a stunning finish.

The rivalry is not limited to the track but also extends to marathons as Gebrselassie noted how Kenyan and Ethiopian athletes continuously pushed each other to break world records.

“Look at the recent women’s world record, a Kenyan broke it (Brigid Kosgei) before Tigst Assefa brought it down, and a year later Ruth Chepngetich brought it down even more. I’m sure Tigst is hiding in the woods somewhere, working hard to claim his title, and this is good competition,he said.

Reflecting on his own career, Gebrselassie highlighted memorable encounters with Kenyan athletes that were often intense but always deeply respectful.

Among those he ran against were Paul Tergat, Moses Tanui, Daniel Komen, John Ngugi and Josphat Machuka each brought their own unique challenges.

“I competed with the likes of Paul Tergat, Moses Tanui, Daniel Komen, John Ngugi, William Sigei, Josphat Machuka among others. I remember them all.” he said.

A particular memory stands out for Gebrselassie – the dramatic 1993 World Championships 10,000m race against Moise Tanui.

“He was in good form, but he hid his cards until the last laps. He advanced and I was right behind him, but I regretted not reacting early enough.

“In the process I came into contact with his foot and his shoe came off. Furious, he reacted by increasing the pace, but I was strong and responded and won the race in the end.

But now we’re good friends and I always joke with him that next time, make sure you tie your shoes well so you don’t lose any of them on the track.it is told.

Gebrselassie also recalled the physical altercation with Joseph Machuka at the 1992 World Junior Championships, where the Kenyan hit him on the back of the head after losing a close race.

Despite the heated moment, Gebrselassie admitted how such rivalries brought out the best in him.

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