How Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge signed off from Paris Olympics 2024

World Marathon legend, Eliud Kipchoge signed off from the Paris Olympics on an emotional day that saw him fail to finish a race for the first time in impressive career.

At the age of 39, Kipchoge lined up eyeing what would have been his third gold medal at the Olympics but failed to finish the race in what he described as his worst marathon.

Fans who lined up the road had a final glimpse of the world's greatest marathon runner in action in what is also his last Olympics.

Kipchoge appeared to struggle and dropped from the leading pack before making the decision to drop out of the race.

He stopped and allowed that last athlete in the race, Ser-Od Bat-Ochir to overtake him after 31 kilometers before signing off.

The legend handed over his shoes and socks to fans.

The crowd cheered and clapped as Kipchoge signed off before getting into an Olympic van in his final day of action in Paris.

Eliud Kipchoge among other athletes at the Paris Olympics, August 10 Eliud Kipchoge among other athletes at the Paris Olympics, August 10 Pulse Live Kenya

Eliud Kipchoge on retiring

Reflecting on the events of the day, Kipchoge noted that it was the first time that he had failed to finish a race.

“It is a difficult time for me…This my worst marathon. I have never done a DNF (did not finish). That’s life. Like a boxer, I have been knocked down, I have won, I have come second, eighth, 10th, fifth – now I did not finish. That’s life.” Kipchoge stated.

While hinting at retirement, Kipchoge noted that he will still be in the game but in a different capacity.

“You will see me in a different way, maybe giving people motivation, but I will not run.

“I don't know what to do next. I need to go back [home], sit down, and try to figure out my 21 years of running at a high level. I need to evolve and feature in other things.” The Marathon legend stated.