Faith Kipyegon’s Sub-Four Mile Quest Captivates the Track World
Experts suggest that although physiological limits may loom, the possibility of a sub-four-minute mile by a woman is more realistic than ever.
Faith Kipyegon narrowly missed breaking the four-minute mile barrier, clocking 4:06.42 in a solo attempt in Monaco on June 28, 2025, showcasing her elite talent and unrelenting drive.
By Janet Philip
Faith Kipyegon narrowly missed breaking the historic four-minute mile barrier Saturday, clocking 4:06.42 in a high-stakes solo attempt that underscored both her elite talent and unrelenting drive, June 28, 2025.
The Kenyan middle-distance star, who holds world records in both the 1500 meters and the mile, ran as part of Nike’s “Breaking4” initiative, which provided high-tech pacing support and optimal race conditions.
Despite these advantages, her time will not be ratified as a world record under World Athletics regulations due to the use of pacemakers and other non-standard aids.
Kipyegon, 31, remained positive after the race. “I feel good. I have tried. I have proven it is possible,” she told reporters. “I know one day, one time, a woman will run under four minutes. I will still go for it. I hope I will get it.”
Saturday’s run, held at Stade Louis II, was intended to test the limits of human endurance in women’s middle-distance running, much like Eliud Kipchoge’s historic sub-two-hour marathon attempt in 2019. While Kipyegon’s run fell short of the milestone, it reignited global conversation about the future of women’s track and field performance.
The event featured a digital pacing system and a rotating team of pacemakers, engineered to give Kipyegon her best possible shot at the barrier-breaking mark.
Experts suggest that although physiological limits may loom, the possibility of a sub-four-minute mile by a woman is more realistic than ever.
With two Olympic gold medals and multiple world titles, Kipyegon continues to cement her legacy as one of the greatest middle-distance runners in history. Her pursuit of the elusive mark isn’t over—and the world will be watching.
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