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Berlin Marathon: Tigst Assefa misses world record due to cramps

Ethiopian Tigst Assefa achieved the third fastest time in marathon history at the Berlin Marathon, but missed the world record due to cramps at the finish.

27 September 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Berlin Marathon: Tigst Assefa misses world record due to cramps — Photo: Katie Chan · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

The 52nd Berlin Marathon took place on Sunday. Tigst Assefa from Ethiopia aimed to break the women's world record. From the start of the event, she delivered a strong performance and was on track for a record time for a long period. To achieve her goal, she needed a time of under 2:11:32 hours, the current best mark.

However, just before the finish line, about two kilometers away, Assefa started to struggle. She suffered from muscle cramps that severely affected her speed. Despite the pain, she tried to maintain her pace and cross the finish line, unwilling to give up on her dream of the world record.

Ultimately, Tigst Assefa crossed the finish line in a time of 2:11:04 hours, which stands as the third fastest marathon time in history. Nevertheless, she fell short of the target world record by 68 seconds, missing the chance to claim it. Her performance, however, is regarded as outstanding, as she ran an impressive time despite the injury issues.

In the men's race, victory went to Guye Adola, also from Ethiopia. He finished with a time of 2:02:51 hours. Adola also achieved his personal best, setting the second-fastest time in history in Berlin.

The event attracted many spectators once again and was marked by thrilling competitions. Over the years, the Berlin Marathon has established itself as one of the most important marathon events in the world, known for its fast course and international participant numbers.

It remains to be seen whether Tigst Assefa will have another opportunity to attempt her world record in future races. Both she and the spectators hope for a quick return to see her in another marathon.

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