Jacob Ingebrigsten Gets Redemption with 5000m Olympic Title

Jakob Ingebrigtsen of Norway triumphed in the men's 5000m at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, capturing the gold medal with a stunning final lap sprint. After a disappointing fourth place in the 1500m final earlier in the Games, Ingebrigtsen returned to the track to claim his first Olympic gold in the 5000m with a time of 13:13.66, marking a season's best for him. This victory was a significant turnaround for the Norwegian, who has previously won world titles in this event following losses in the 1500m​.

Ronald Kwemoi of Kenya secured the silver medal with a close finish at 13:15.04, making it his first Olympic medal. Grant Fisher from the USA rounded out the podium, taking the bronze in 13:15.13. Fisher's performance was notable as he also earned a bronze in the men's 10,000m earlier in the Games, showcasing his consistency and endurance across multiple long-distance events​.

The race was tactically complex and began at a slower pace, which played into the hands of runners with strong finishing kicks. The early laps saw no significant moves, with competitors watching each other closely. As the race unfolded, the pace gradually increased, with a group of Ethiopian runners initially leading the pack before the dynamics shifted dramatically in the final stages.

With about 600 meters remaining, the race's intensity surged when Hagos Gebrhiwet of Ethiopia made a decisive move, trying to break away from the field. This action prompted a quick response from Ingebrigtsen, who stayed within striking distance, managing his pace smartly. Ronald Kwemoi of Kenya also kept up, setting the stage for a thrilling final lap.

As the bell rang for the final lap, Ingebrigtsen and Kwemoi positioned themselves strategically, monitoring Gebrhiwet's fading lead. Ingebrigtsen's exceptional final 200 meters, where he surged past his competitors, ensured his victory, leaving Kwemoi to secure the silver with a finish of 13:15.04. Grant Fisher of the USA, who had previously won a bronze in the 10000m, demonstrated his consistent performance by clinching another bronze in 13:15.13​.

Jakob Ingebrigtsen: “It’s a big part of sports. I think many of the greatest athletes have defeats that will haunt them for their lives, but hopefully the reward of accomplishing things and creating memories outweighs them. I caught with Hagos Gebrhiwet and felt strong at that point. That’s the thing about the 5 km. It’s all about spending your energy wisely and making good decisions."

MEN'S 5000m FINAL RESULTS:

ALL ATHLETICS RESULTS.