Renowned Kenyan athlete Eliud Kipchoge was met by thousands lining the streets in China as fans turned out in large numbers to welcome him.
In a viral video seen by TNX Africa, the two-time Olympic marathon champion was escorted by officials as a huge crowd cheered and beamed with excitement.
He waved and smiled at the jubilant fans, many of whom held banners written in both Chinese and English.
One read, “Welcome Kipchoge.” The long-distance runner was also adorned with a garland of flowers and took time to sign autographs for his admirers.
On his Instagram page, Kipchoge acknowledged the reception, writing, “Let us run as one.”
This is not the first time the legendary runner has received a grand welcome abroad.
In 2025, Kipchoge was accorded a reception fit for royalty during a visit to Bangkok, where he was seen alongside Queen Suthida on November 30.
In a viral clip shared on X, two men in black tuxedos bowed and genuflected as they opened a door for him, while uniformed officers walked ahead.
According to the International Federation of Muaythai Associations, the moment occurred during the Amazing Thailand Half Marathon, where Kipchoge ran alongside the Queen and more than 50,000 participants.
Crowds filled the streets of Bangkok as both the Queen and the Olympic champion waved and smiled at spectators.
Kipchoge also immersed himself in Thai culture during the visit.
He trained with renowned Muay Thai fighter Buakaw Banchamek and visited the iconic Rajadamnern Stadium. The visit aimed to spotlight Muay Thai’s global appeal following its recognition by the Olympic movement.
“From the marathon streets to the Muaythai ring, Kipchoge trained with Buakaw Banchamek, visited Rajadamnern Stadium, celebrated Thailand’s heritage, and praised Muaythai as a sport of global significance,” IFMA noted on Instagram.
Following his recent reception in China, Kenyans on social media shared mixed reactions.
On X, Emmanuel Motelin wrote that Kipchoge draws massive admiration abroad compared to back home, while another user, Leo, simply remarked, “Bro is a legend, look at that crowd.”
