Ethiopian · Asella, Ethiopia · Born 18 April 1973Ethiopian long-distance runner widely regarded as one of the greatest distance runners in history, holding 27 world records during his career.
Haile Gebrselassie was born in Asella, Ethiopia in 1973. He ran to school — 10km each way — from childhood. He won consecutive Olympic 10,000m gold medals in 1996 and 2000. He set 27 world records across distances from 2,000m to the marathon. His marathon world record of 2:03:59 at Berlin 2008 stood for 3 years. His combination of efficiency — the arm swing slightly asymmetrical from carrying a schoolbook — technical precision and competitive intelligence over long distances makes him the most complete distance runner of the late 20th and early 21st century. He became a businessman and politician in Ethiopia after retirement.
Greatest distance runner ever, 27 world records
How They Played
Tactical runner with devastating kick and metronomic pacing
Lasting Impact
Transformed distance running and inspired generation of athletes
Career Honours
- Olympic Gold 10000m 2x (1996,2000)
- World Champion 4x
- World Record holder 27 times
Ethiopian Athletes