Three-time World champion in the 10,000m, Joshua Cheptegei, has reportedly suffered an injury setback in Budapest, which now casts a shadow over his participation in the 2023 World Athletics 5000m heats scheduled for today.
Initially, he was set to compete in heat one of the 5000m preliminary rounds. However, Cheptegei’s unfortunate injury occurrence has disrupted his plans, and this setback has implications not only for him but also for his compatriot and world bronze medalist, Oscar Chelimo, who was positioned to compete in heat two.
Despite the injury, Cheptegei’s name remains on the roster for Heat Two. If he manages to compete, he will face the overwhelming favorite, Norwegian Jakob Ingebrigtsen, in a head-to-head showdown. The outcome of this race is now uncertain due to Cheptegei’s injury woes.