Kiplimo Makes History with Stunning Win at Chicago Marathon

CHICAGO — Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo proved that inexperience is no barrier to greatness after storming to victory at the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, setting a national record and becoming the seventh-fastest marathoner of all time.

The 24-year-old clocked an unofficial time of 2:02:21, eclipsing the Ugandan record and finishing 91 seconds ahead of Kenya’s Amos Kipruto. For much of the race, Kiplimo was on course to challenge the world record of 2:00:35, set by the late Kelvin Kiptum in Chicago two years ago, before fading slightly over the final four miles.

Despite the late fatigue, Kiplimo powered across the line and collapsed in exhaustion, later receiving medical attention and warm applause from the crowd. The triumph marks only his second career marathon, further underscoring his immense potential in the 42-kilometre distance.

Already a two-time World Cross Country Champion and Olympic bronze medallist over 10,000 metres, Kiplimo’s performance cements his place among the global elite of long-distance running.

“It’s unbelievable,” Kiplimo said afterwards. “I gave everything today. I wanted to make my country proud — and I think I did.”

Kiplimo’s victory and Hug’s continued excellence made Sunday’s event one for the ages — a celebration of endurance, history, and human spirit on the streets of Chicago.