Makueni-born star Winfred Mutile Yavi has broken her silence after losing the women’s 3000m steeplechase title to rising star Faith Cherotich at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
Yavi, one of the most decorated athletes in the event, came into the race as the defending world and Olympic champion. The Kenyan-born Bahraini runner had long dominated the steeplechase, often finishing ahead of Cherotich in past competitions.
However, the script flipped dramatically on Wednesday, September 17, at Japan’s National Stadium.
Cherotich’s Late Surge Dethrones Champion
Despite her decorated resume and strong form, Yavi was unable to hold off a determined Faith Cherotich. The 21-year-old Kenyan, who won bronze at the 2024 Paris Olympics, surged past Yavi after the final water jump and powered to the finish line to clinch Kenya’s fourth world title in the event.
Cherotich clocked a blistering 8:51.59, setting a new championship record. Yavi settled for silver in 8:56.46, while Ethiopia’s Sembo Almayew claimed bronze with 8:58.86.
Yavi Responds: “The Margins Are Razor-Thin”
In a heartfelt post on her Facebook page after the race, Yavi acknowledged the disappointment but praised her competitors and vowed to keep pushing forward.
“The margins at the World Championships are razor-thin. The journey matters as much as the result. 🦋 Grateful for the silver in the 3000m steeplechase and for sharing the track with incredible competitors — congratulations!” she wrote.
What’s Next for Yavi?
While the silver may feel like a setback, Yavi’s sights are already set on the future. She is preparing for a rematch with Cherotich at the World Athletics Ultimate Championships in Budapest and is eyeing redemption at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
If her track record is anything to go by, Yavi’s story is far from over.
