A time of 3:26.69 over 1500 metres established Asbel Kiprop as the third-fastest man in history at that distance. Born in Eldoret, Kenya, on 30 June 1989, Kiprop emerged as a dominant force in middle-distance running during his teenage years, eventually securing multiple world titles and an Olympic gold medal during an extensive professional career.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Kiprop began running at age 13 while attending Simat School, eventually dropping out of high school to focus on athletics. His breakthrough occurred in 2007, when he won the junior race gold medal at the IAAF World Cross Country Championships and the 1500 metres gold at the All-Africa Games. That year, he was named Most Promising Sportsman of the Year in Kenya.
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At the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Kiprop finished second in the 1500 metres but was later awarded the gold medal after the original winner, Rashid Ramzi, tested positive for the banned substance CERA. He holds the record as the youngest winner of this Olympic title. He later claimed three consecutive 1500 metres world titles in 2011, 2013, and 2015.
Doping Sanctions
In November 2017, Kiprop failed a doping test after returning a positive result for EPO. The Athletics Integrity Unit confirmed the violation, leading to a four-year ban handed down in April 2019. Following the suspension, Kiprop publicly expressed frustration regarding the proceedings, including making threats against the IAAF and the National Police Service.
Training and Personal Background
Kiprop is a native of Kaptinga village, near Eldoret, and the son of athlete David Kebenei. He trained at the Kipchoge Keino High Performance Training Centre until his expulsion in 2009 for violating facility rules regarding visitors. His younger brother, Victor Kipchirchir Kebenei, is also an athlete who competes in the 1500 metres event.
Fast facts
- Born: 30 June 1989, Eldoret, Kenya
- Primary Event: 1500 metres
- Personal Best: 3:26.69
- Olympic Gold: 2008 Beijing
- World Championship Titles: 2011, 2013, 2015
- Doping Ban: Four years, starting in 2019
- Father: David Kebenei, former athlete
Questions readers ask
What is Asbel Kiprop's best time in the 1500 metres?
His personal best is 3:26.69, recorded at the Monaco Diamond League in 2015.
Why was Kiprop awarded the 2008 Olympic gold medal years after the race?
He was promoted to first place after the original gold medalist, Rashid Ramzi, tested positive for the banned substance CERA.
