In a significant blow to the world of athletics, Kenyan athlete Rhonex Kipruto, renowned as the 10-kilometer road race world record holder, has been provisionally suspended due to an anti-doping violation, as announced by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) on Wednesday.
Kipruto, who also secured a bronze medal in the 10,000 meters at the 2019 world championships, achieved the remarkable feat of breaking the 10-kilometer road race world record in 2020.
The AIU took to Twitter to reveal that Kipruto’s suspension was imposed “for the use of a Prohibited Substance/Method (ABP).” ABP, referring to the Athlete’s Biological Passport, is a tool that detects inconsistencies that may indicate the presence of doping substances or methods within an athlete’s system.
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The 23-year-old runner has been issued a notice of the charge, signaling the gravity of the allegations against him.
This suspension is likely to cast a shadow over Kipruto’s career and reputation, as well as raising concerns about the prevalence of doping in the world of athletics. The AIU’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the sport is evident through their prompt action in response to the violation.
The athletics community and fans worldwide await further developments in this case, as Kipruto’s future in the sport hangs in the balance. The outcome of the investigation and any subsequent disciplinary measures will have implications not only for the athlete but also for the ongoing fight against doping in athletics.
