Kipyegon shortlisted for the 2026 Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year award

Kenya's middle distance star Faith Kipyegon has secured a third straight nomination for Sportswoman of the Year at the prestigious Laureus World Sports Awards, strengthening her claim as one of the most dominant athletes of her generation.

The Laureus Awards, globally regarded as the "Oscars of Sports" recognise the finest achievements across disciplines each year. Presented by the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, the honours go beyond medals, celebrating excellence, resilience and the global influence of sport.

Kipyegon’s 3 times in a row nominations tells the story of not just brilliance but one that is sustained.

Her 2024 nomination followed a historic 2023 campaign in which she dismantled three world records and double gold at the World Championships. In 2025, she returned to the shortlist after delivering a landmark performance at the Paris Olympic Games, becoming the first woman to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the 1,500m.

Now, in 2026, she is once again in contention after breaking her own 1,500m world record and clinching a fourth world title in the event during a commanding 2025 season.

In this year's race for the Laureus crown, Kipyegon is battling a formidable field that includes American sprint hurdler Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, U.S. sprinter Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, Spanish football star Aitana Bonmati, Belarusian tennis powerhouse Aryna Sabalenka, and American swimming great Katie Ledecky.

The 2024 edition was won Spanish midfielder Bonmati as gymnastics icon Simone Biles claimed the 2025 Sportswoman of the Year title.

For Kipyegon, however, the conversation is no longer just about nominations, rather legacy. Three consecutive appearances on sport's grandest awards stage is clear statement of excellence. The world must take notice.