Ugandan Olympic runner Rebecca Cheptegei tragically passed away at the age of 33 after being allegedly attacked by her former boyfriend. The horrific incident occurred when she was doused with petrol and set on fire at her home in Western Kenya, resulting in extensive burns.
Cheptegei, who gained recognition for her athletic achievements, finished 44th in the marathon at the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris. Her sporting journey also included a remarkable gold medal victory at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Thailand back in 2022.
Expressing deep sorrow and condemnation, the Uganda Olympic Committee president, Donald Rukare, denounced the attack as “a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete.” He also emphasized that Cheptegei’s legacy will perpetuate despite this tragedy.
The Ugandan Athletics Federation posted on X: “We have learnt of the sad passing on of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei following a vicious attack by her boyfriend.
“May her gentle soul rest in peace and we strongly condemn violence against women. This was a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete. Her legacy will continue to endure.”
According to authorities in Kenya, the attack took place shortly after Cheptegei returned home from church. It was suggested that the altercation with her ex-boyfriend stemmed from a dispute over a piece of land. In this context, Cheptegei’s parents mentioned that their daughter had purchased land in the Trans-Nzoia area to have proximity to Kenya’s numerous athletic training facilities.
This heartbreaking loss has not only shaken the sports community but also sparked discussions about the importance of addressing domestic conflicts and ensuring the safety of athletes, emphasizing the need for greater support and protection for individuals in the sports industry.
World of sports 
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