Benson Kipruto Wins New York City Marathon in Dramatic Photo Finish as Hellen Obiri Shatters Course Record

Kenya’s Benson Kipruto emerged victorious at the 2025 New York City Marathon on Sunday, clinching the men’s elite title by the slimmest of margins in what has been described as one of the most dramatic finishes in the event’s history. Kipruto crossed the finish line in 2 hours, 8 minutes, and 9 seconds — just 0.02 seconds ahead of his compatriot Alexander Mutiso, marking the closest men’s finish the New York Marathon has ever witnessed.

The final stretch saw a breathtaking sprint between the two Kenyan runners, both refusing to yield as they charged down Central Park’s final incline. Spectators roared as Kipruto edged past Mutiso in the final strides, collapsing across the finish line in disbelief as officials confirmed his victory through a photo finish. The remarkable ending not only cemented Kipruto’s place in marathon history but also demonstrated Kenya’s continued dominance in long-distance running.

For Kipruto, who previously won the Boston Marathon in 2021 and the Chicago Marathon in 2022, the New York triumph marks another glittering milestone in a career defined by consistency and mental strength. “It was an unbelievable race,” he told reporters after the event. “I could feel Mutiso on my shoulder all the way, and I knew it would come down to the last second. I just gave everything I had left.”

In the women’s race, fellow Kenyan Hellen Obiri produced an equally stunning performance, breaking the 22-year-old course record to claim her second consecutive New York City Marathon title. Obiri finished in 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 48 seconds, surpassing the previous record of 2:22:31 set by Margaret Okayo in 2003. Her dominant run further solidified her position as one of the most versatile and accomplished distance runners in the world, having already claimed victories in both Boston and New York in recent years.

The 2025 edition of the race saw over 50,000 runners from around the globe participate, with perfect autumn weather conditions and large crowds lining the streets of all five boroughs. The marathon, known for its challenging route and unpredictable competition, once again delivered a spectacle of endurance, emotion, and global unity.

Among the elite men, Ethiopia’s Tsegaye Getachew finished third, nearly 40 seconds behind the Kenyan duo. Former world-record holder Eliud Kipchoge, who was making his New York debut, finished a distant 17th in 2 hours, 15 minutes — a result that has raised fresh questions about his competitive future. Kipchoge, now 40, appeared composed but subdued after the race, hinting that he may soon step away from elite competition. “Every race teaches us something,” he said. “Today was difficult, but I am grateful to have finally experienced New York.”

Obiri’s historic win in the women’s category also highlighted Kenya’s growing depth in female distance running. Speaking after her victory, she expressed joy at breaking the long-standing record. “I wanted to make history here,” she said. “To win again and break the record means a lot, not just to me but to everyone back home in Kenya.”

The victory was even more special for Obiri as she dedicated it to her family and coaches, crediting their support for her success. She also revealed that she is now eyeing the 2028 Olympics as a potential final chapter in her glittering career.

Meanwhile, in the wheelchair divisions, Switzerland’s Marcel Hug and America’s Susannah Scaroni dominated their respective races, both setting new course records. Hug, dubbed the “Silver Bullet,” continued his reign of excellence with another flawless performance, while Scaroni claimed her fourth New York title in commanding fashion.

This year’s New York City Marathon will be remembered not just for its tight finishes but also for its broader message of resilience and sportsmanship. From Kipruto’s relentless sprint to Obiri’s record-breaking run, the event showcased the very essence of human endurance.

Race organizers lauded the performances, describing them as some of the finest in the marathon’s modern history. “Today we witnessed the heart of what makes this race so special — passion, determination, and an international community united through sport,” said race director Ted Metellus.

With Kipruto and Obiri’s triumphs, Kenya once again reinforced its global dominance in marathon running, continuing a legacy that dates back decades. As the 2025 marathon season winds down, both champions have now set their sights on future majors, with Kipruto hinting at a possible return to defend his crown in New York next year.

Their performances have not only thrilled fans worldwide but also reignited conversations about the next generation of East African runners ready to take up the mantle. The New York Marathon, as always, proved to be more than just a race — it was a celebration of endurance, unity, and the indomitable human spirit.