Haile Gebrselassie opens up on tense moments and mutual respect with Kenyans

Ethiopian legend has made a striking revelation about the deep-running rivalry and interdependence between Kenyan and Ethiopian athletes.

The iconic runner described how the fierce competition between the two nations has been both a challenge and a blessing throughout his career.

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The Kenyan-Ethiopian rivalry has become the heartbeat of global athletics, delivering unforgettable moments on the world stage.

From the jaw-dropping sprints to the final meter to record-breaking marathons, the clashes between these two powerhouse nations have captivated the world for decades.

For Gebrselassie, these encounters were more than mere races—they were defining battles that shaped his legacy.

«I always say, without Kenyans, Ethiopians cannot do well and vice versa. I’m who I am today because Kenyans pushed me so hard, and I can tell you they are very good and strong in training and competitions,» Gebrselassie admitted during an interview that revisited his career highlights and rivalries as per

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The legendary long-distance runner’s perspective shines a light on the mutual respect and camaraderie beneath the fierce competition.

His statement comes against the backdrop of iconic duels that have defined athletics history, such as the epic 10,000m final at the 2000 Sydney Olympics where Gebrselassie narrowly edged out Kenyann a breathtaking finish.

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The rivalry is not limited to the track but also extends to marathons as Gebrselassie noted how Kenyan and Ethiopian athletes have continuously pushed each other to shatter world records.

“Just look at the recent women’s world record, a Kenyan broke it (Brigid Kosgei) before Tigst Assefa lowered it, and after one year, Ruth Chepngetich lowered it even more. I’m sure Tigst is hiding somewhere in the forest working hard to reclaim her title, and that’s good competition,» he said.

Reflecting on his own career, Gebrselassie highlighted memorable clashes with Kenyan athletes, which were often intense but always deeply respectful.

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Among those he raced against were Moses Tanui, Daniel Komen, John Ngugi, and Josphat Machuka, each of whom brought their own unique challenges.

«I competed with people like Paul Tergat, Moses Tanui, Daniel Komen, John Ngugi, William Sigei, Josphat Machuka among others. I remember them all,» he said.

One particular memory stands out for Gebrselassie—the dramatic 1993 10,000m race against Moses Tanui.

«He was in good shape but was hiding his cards until the last few laps. He surged forward and I was right behind him, but I regretted it because I didn’t react early enough.

“In that process I made contact with his foot, and his shoe came off. Angrily, he reacted by increasing his pace, but I was strong and responded and won the race in the end.

But we are now good friends, and I always joke with him that next time, make sure you tie your shoes well so that you don’t lose any of them on the track,» he recounted.

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Gebrselassie also recalled the physical altercation with Joseph Machuka at the 1992 World Junior Championships, where the Kenyan struck him on the back of the head after losing in a tight race.

Despite the heated moment Gebrselassie acknowledged how such rivalries brought out the best in him.

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