El Bakkali and Girma

Soufiane El Bakkali successfully defended his Olympic men's 3000 metres steeplechase title, finishing with a time of 8:06.05, while American Kenneth Rooks and Kenya's Abraham Kibiwot secured silver and bronze respectively. The race was overshadowed by a serious incident involving Ethiopian world record holder Lamecha Girma, who fell after hitting a barrier with over 200 meters remaining and was subsequently taken to the hospital. Medical staff reported that Girma was conscious and able to communicate, while Paris 2024 organizers expressed their support for his recovery. El Bakkali's victory marks him as the first athlete to win back-to-back Olympic titles in this event since 1936. Despite the dramatic turn of events, El Bakkali expressed joy at his achievement, noting the difference in atmosphere with fans present at the Stade de France. The community remains hopeful for Girma's swift recovery following the accident.