Morocco’s Soufiane El Bakkali made history at the Paris 2024 Olympics by winning his second consecutive gold medal in the men’s 3,000m steeplechase. In a race filled with drama and intense competition, El Bakkali crossed the finish line in 8:06.05, becoming the first man since 1932 to win back-to-back Olympic titles in this event.
The 28-year-old athlete faced a formidable field, including world record-holder Lamecha Girma of Ethiopia. Despite the strong competition, El Bakkali delivered a masterful performance, holding back in the early stages of the race before making his move in the final laps.
As the race unfolded, the field remained tightly bunched together until the final lap, when the leading contenders began to make their moves. Kenneth Rooks of the United States briefly took the lead on the backstretch, but a crash by Girma at the third last barrier opened the door for El Bakkali. With determination and grit, El Bakkali surged ahead, clearing the final barrier and sprinting to the finish line with his arms outstretched in triumph.
Kenneth Rooks finished second in 8:06.41, while Kenya’s Abraham Kibiwot secured the bronze in 8:06.47. This victory not only added another gold to El Bakkali’s impressive collection, which includes two world titles, but also solidified his status as one of the greatest steeplechasers in Olympic history.
El Bakkali’s win is a testament to his exceptional skill, strategy, and endurance, qualities that have made him a dominant force in the steeplechase discipline. His back-to-back victories at the Olympics have inspired athletes across Morocco and beyond, marking a new chapter in the history of this challenging event.
Source: Olympics.com.
