In a sensational display of endurance and strategy, Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa stormed to victory at the 2025 London Marathon, smashing the women’s marathon world record with a time of 2:15:50.
This blistering performance eclipses the previous record of 2:16:16, set just last year by Kenya’s Peres Jepchirchir. Assefa’s new mark now awaits official confirmation by World Athletics.
Dominant Finish
Assefa’s winning strategy became clear in the final kilometres. She made a well-timed surge, pulling ahead decisively from Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei, who crossed the line second in 2:18:44. Dutch Olympic champion Sifan Hassan claimed third, clocking 2:19:00.
This latest win further strengthens Assefa’s reputation in long-distance running. She already held the previous fastest marathon time – 2:11:53 – set in Berlin in 2023.
Her triumph in London proves one thing: she’s not slowing down. “It’s unbelievable. I came here with a goal and I gave it everything,” Assefa said after her record-breaking run.
Men’s Race: Sawe’s Breakthrough Victory
In the men’s race, it was Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe who stole the spotlight, clinching his first World Marathon Major title with a swift 2:02:27 finish.
Sawe’s move came early, over 10 kilometres from the finish line. It paid off. He stayed ahead of Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo, with defending champion Alexander Mutiso falling behind. “I had confidence in my training and knew I could do it if I pushed early,” Sawe shared.
Record-Breaking Participation
This year’s marathon didn’t just break records on the stopwatch. Over 56,000 runners crossed the finish line in London, surpassing the previous record of 55,646 from the 2024 New York City Marathon.
The event showcased not only elite talent but also the growing global passion for distance running.
Tigst Assefa’s record-setting performance at the 2025 London Marathon has redefined the women’s marathon landscape. With her place in history now solidified and World Athletics set to verify her time, Assefa stands as the undisputed queen of the road. Meanwhile, Sabastian Sawe’s breakout win signals the rise of a new name in men’s marathon dominance.
From personal bests to historic milestones, this year’s London Marathon had it all — speed, strategy, and a record-breaking crowd to witness it.
