Allyson Felix Returns to the Track
Seven-time Olympic gold medalist Allyson Felix, now 40 years old, has declared her intention to compete for a spot at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Although she officially retired from professional competition in 2022 after the World Championships in Oregon, USA, Felix is determined to make a return despite her age.
She remarked: 'At this age, I should probably stay home, take care of the kids, and handle all that. But why not turn everything upside down? Why not pursue what I want? Why not allow myself to be vulnerable?'
Felix also reflected on the challenges of a long career in sports: 'I completely understand those who stay in the sport too long. And you think: What are they doing? I know that at 40, I am no longer at my peak. I have no illusions about that. I am very clear about what this is and what I want to achieve. And I hope it will be understood that way.'
Regardless of the outcome, she plans to attend the Olympic Games to support her peers: 'I would probably be disappointed in myself if I didn't even try. No matter how things turn out, I will still be at the Olympics—with my kids, relaxing, and cheering for everyone.'
Records at the London Marathon
While Felix prepares for new challenges, two athletes achieved an unprecedented result at the 2026 London Marathon:
- Kenyan runner Sebastian Sawe became the first athlete in history to complete the marathon distance in under two hours, finishing with a time of 1:59:30.
- Ethiopian runner Yomif Kejelcha took second place, also finishing under two hours with a time of 1:59:40.
The previous record was held by Kelvin Kiptum, who ran the Chicago Marathon in 2:00:35 in 2023.
Allyson Felix's career revival could mark a significant moment not just for her personally, but for track and field as a whole, highlighting the possibility of returning to the competitive arena even after retirement. At the same time, the London Marathon records demonstrate advances in athlete training and sports technology. These developments show that track and field continues to evolve, pushing athletes toward new achievements and challenges.
As Felix embarks on this ambitious journey, it's important to note the incredible achievements of fellow athletes in the running world. For instance, at the recent London Marathon, remarkable performances were showcased, including the historic sub-two-hour finishes by Sebastian Sawe and Yomif Kejelcha. To explore the implications of these records and how they relate to Felix's comeback, read more about her aspirations for the 2028 Olympics here.