.Emily Thompson, 27, crossed the finish line with a smile—and a new course record—at this year’s World Marathon 2024, finishing the full 42.195 km in 2:17:42, setting a personal best and becoming the youngest female winner in the event’s history.

The crowd erupted as Thompson, originally from Brighton, UK, made her final sprint down the Bahrain International Circuit, beating the previous record by over 40 seconds. Her remarkable performance has put her in the spotlight, not only for her speed but for her inspiring comeback after an injury sidelined her for most of 2023.

“I didn’t come here expecting to win—I just wanted to run free,” Thompson said, holding back tears during the post-race interview. “But the energy, the support, and all the training came together. This moment means everything.”

Thompson now sets her sights on the 2025 Olympic qualifiers, with fans around the world calling her the “One to Watch.”