Joshua Cheptegei Withdraws from 5000m at World Athletics Championships Due to Foot Injury

Joshua Cheptegei, the three-time world champion from Uganda, has been forced to withdraw from the 5000m men’s event at the ongoing World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary due to a foot injury. Cheptegei, who recently won the 10,000m gold medal, is struggling with a persistent foot injury that has hindered his ability to compete.

Benjamin Njia, the national coach and vice president of the Uganda Athletics Federation, confirmed Cheptegei’s injury and withdrawal from the 5000m event. Njia mentioned that the injury has affected Cheptegei’s foot, making it impossible for him to continue participating in the championship.

This isn’t the first time Cheptegei has faced injury-related setbacks during major competitions. In the previous edition of the World Championships in Eugene, Oregon, he finished ninth in the 5000m event while dealing with an injury. The same injury prevented him from competing in the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

Cheptegei has encountered injury-related issues throughout the year, leading to limited participation in various events. His withdrawal from the 5000m event adds to the challenges faced by Team Uganda, which has already experienced setbacks with Jacob Kiplimo’s injury and Janat Chemusto’s suspension.

Despite these challenges, Cheptegei remains a prominent figure in the world of athletics, with his performances and achievements continuing to inspire fans and athletes alike.