Famous Ethiopian Sportspersons

Haile Gebrselassie is a retired Ethiopian long-distance track and road running athlete, as well as a successful businessman. He achieved great success in his athletic career, winning multiple Olympic gold medals, World Championship titles, and major marathons. Known for his versatility across various distances, he set numerous national and world records. Haile's dominance in both track and road running events earned him the title of one of the greatest long-distance runners in history. Additionally, he has been recognized for his influence and contributions to African society.

Genzebe Dibaba Keneni is an accomplished Ethiopian middle- and long-distance runner, with notable achievements in various prestigious competitions. She has excelled in both indoor and outdoor events, holding world records in several distances. Genzebe has consistently performed well in World Athletics Championships, earning multiple medals and titles. Her success as a junior athlete foreshadowed her impressive professional career. With a strong presence in the Diamond League and numerous accolades, she is recognized as a highly skilled and decorated athlete on the world stage.

Almaz Ayana Eba is an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner with a remarkable career in athletics. She has won multiple medals at the World Athletics Championships, including gold in the 10,000 meters and silver in the 5,000 meters. Almaz also achieved a historic feat by breaking the 10,000 meters world record at the 2016 Rio Olympics, a record she held until 2021. She was named the IAAF Female World Athlete of the Year in 2016 and set the fastest women's marathon debut at the 2022 Amsterdam Marathon.

Derartu Tulu is a renowned Ethiopian former long-distance runner who excelled in track, cross country running, and road running up to the marathon distance. She made history as the first Ethiopian woman and the first black African woman to win an Olympic gold medal. Her impressive career includes multiple Olympic medals, World Championships titles, and victories in prestigious events like the IAAF World Cross Country championships. Beyond her athletic achievements, she has been actively involved in the administration of Ethiopian athletics, currently serving as the President of the Ethiopian Athletics Federation.

Letesenbet Gidey is a dominant Ethiopian long-distance runner known for her outstanding achievements in various distances. She holds an impressive array of world records and titles, including the 5000m, 10000m, and half marathon world records simultaneously. With victories in prestigious events such as the Tokyo Olympics and World Championships, Letesenbet has proven herself as a fierce competitor. Her remarkable performances in the half marathon, road races, and marathon debut further solidify her status as one of the top athletes in the world.

Tirunesh Dibaba is an Ethiopian athlete known for her exceptional achievements in long-distance track events and road races. She has secured multiple Olympic and World Championship gold medals in track events, as well as World Cross Country titles. Dibaba held the world record for the 5,000 meters until 2020. Renowned for her dominance in both short and long races, she made history by winning multiple events at the same championships. Dibaba is celebrated for her remarkable talent and impressive track record in the world of athletics.

Yomif Kejelcha Atomsa is an accomplished Ethiopian distance runner known for his exceptional performances in various championships. He has secured multiple gold medals in events like the 3000 meters at the World Indoor Championships in 2016 and 2018. Kejelcha holds the world indoor record for the mile, showcasing his prowess with a remarkable time of 3:47.01. Additionally, he has demonstrated his talent early in his career by winning titles such as the World Youth 3000 m champion and World Junior 5000 m gold medallist.

Miruts Yifter, also known as "Yifter the Shifter," was a renowned Ethiopian long-distance runner who achieved great success in his career. He famously won two gold medals at the 1980 Summer Olympics, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. Yifter's impressive achievements and remarkable performances on the track solidified his legacy as one of the greatest distance runners of his time. His name is synonymous with excellence and perseverance in the world of athletics.

Lelisa Desisa Benti is a retired Ethiopian long-distance runner known for his expertise in road running competitions. He made a significant mark in his career by securing his first international medal at the 2009 African Junior Athletics Championships, clinching the gold medal in the 10,000 meters event. Throughout his professional life, Desisa displayed remarkable talent and dedication, earning recognition as a skilled and accomplished athlete in the world of long-distance running.

Selemon Barega Shirtaga is a highly accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner known for his impressive achievements on the global stage. He clinched gold in the 10,000 meters at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and secured silver in the 5,000 meters at the 2019 World Championships in Doha. Additionally, he earned a bronze in the 10,000 meters at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest. Barega has also excelled in indoor competitions, winning medals at the World Indoor Championships in the 3,000 meters event.

Tiki Gelana is a highly accomplished Ethiopian professional long-distance runner, specializing in marathon races. She holds the Ethiopian national record for the marathon and has an impressive list of victories and achievements, including winning the gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics with a new Olympic record. Throughout her career, Gelana has consistently performed well in international competitions, setting personal best times and earning recognition for her outstanding performances on the track and road races.

Abeba Aregawi Gebretsadik is a retired Ethiopian-Swedish middle-distance runner known for her specialization in the 1,500 meters. She achieved significant success during her career, winning a bronze medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics and a gold medal at the World Championships in 2013. Aregawi has proudly represented both Ethiopia and Sweden at various international competitions, showcasing her exceptional talent and dedication to the sport of running. Her achievements have solidified her reputation as a highly skilled and accomplished athlete in the world of middle-distance running.

Ejegayehu Dibaba Keneni is an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner, known for her impressive performances in various international competitions. She has earned medals at the Olympics, World Championships, Afro-Asian Games, and All-Africa Games, showcasing her talent and determination in the sport. With a strong background in running and a family legacy of Olympic medalists, Ejegayehu has established herself as a prominent figure in long-distance running, inspiring others with her achievements and dedication to the sport.

Meseret Defar Tola is an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner specializing in the 3,000 meters and 5,000 meters events. She has achieved significant success in top-tier international competitions, including winning Olympic and World Championship gold medals in the 5,000 meters. Defar has broken world records multiple times and held various indoor records. Known for her dominance in the 3,000 meters indoor event, she has secured numerous gold medals at prestigious events such as the IAAF World Indoor Championships. Defar briefly paused her career in 2014 to start a family but planned to make a comeback in 2015.

Mamo Wolde was a prominent Ethiopian long distance runner known for his achievements in track, cross-country, and road running events. He gained international recognition by winning the marathon at the 1968 Summer Olympics. Throughout his career, Wolde showcased exceptional endurance, determination, and talent, solidifying his reputation as one of the top long-distance runners of his time. His dedication to training and competition made him a respected figure in the world of athletics, inspiring many with his athletic prowess and accomplishments.

Muktar Edris is an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner known for his prowess in track and cross country events. He has established himself as a formidable competitor on the professional running circuit, showcasing exceptional speed and endurance. Edris has achieved significant success in various races, consistently demonstrating his skill and determination on the track. His dedication to the sport and commitment to training have earned him recognition as a top athlete in the long-distance running community, inspiring others with his impressive performances.

Shura Kitata Tola is an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner known for his success in marathons and half-marathons. He has participated in prestigious races such as the World Marathon Majors, achieving notable victories and podium finishes. Kitata's career highlights include winning the 2020 London Marathon, where he outpaced renowned runner Eliud Kipchoge. He has also secured victories at the Rome Marathon and Frankfurt Marathon, along with notable second-place finishes at the New York City Marathon. Kitata's consistent performances have solidified his reputation as a top competitor in the world of long-distance running.

Tamirat Tola Abera is an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner with a successful career in track, road, and cross country events. He has excelled in various competitions, including earning a bronze medal in the 10,000 meters at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Tamirat has also competed in marathons at the World Athletics Championships, winning silver in 2017 and gold in 2022 while setting a championship record. He has consistently performed well in prestigious marathons such as the Tokyo, London, and New York City Marathon, showcasing his talent and determination in the sport.

Abebe Bikila was an Ethiopian marathon runner and Olympic champion known for his remarkable achievements in long-distance running. He made history by winning back-to-back Olympic gold medals in the marathon, setting world record times in both races. Prior to his athletic career, he served in the elite Infantry Regiment of the Ethiopian Imperial Guard. Despite sustaining sports-related injuries that impacted his later races, Bikila's legacy as a pioneer in long-distance running continues to inspire athletes in East Africa and beyond.

Tsgabu Grmay is an Ethiopian retired professional road cyclist known for his achievements in national and international competitions. He has secured multiple national championships in road racing and time trials, as well as earning the title of African time trial champion. Tsgabu made history as the first Ethiopian professional cyclist when he joined MTN–Qhubeka, and further solidified his legacy by becoming the first Ethiopian to win an international cycling event at the Tour de Taiwan. His career highlights include participating in prestigious races like the Giro di Lombardia.

Abadi Hadis was an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner known for his impressive achievements in various distances. He placed 15th in the 10,000 meters at the 2016 Olympics and won a bronze medal at the 2017 IAAF World Cross Country Championships. He joined an elite group of athletes by achieving times under 13 minutes for 5000m, under 27 minutes for 10,000m, and under 59 minutes for the half marathon. Tragically, he passed away at the age of 22 while undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness in February 2020.

Guye Adola Idemo is an Ethiopian long-distance runner known for specializing in the half marathon. He gained recognition in 2014 with victories at the Marrakech Half Marathon and a bronze medal at the IAAF World Half Marathon Championships. Adola continued to excel in various races, achieving personal best times and podium finishes. Notably, he made a strong marathon debut in the 2017 Berlin Marathon, finishing second with an impressive time. His success continued with wins at prestigious events like the Delhi Half Marathon and the Berlin Marathon in 2021.

Mosinet Geremew is a highly accomplished Ethiopian middle-distance and long-distance runner. He has had a successful career in cross country running, achieving notable finishes at the IAAF World Cross Country Championships. Mosinet has excelled in various road races, with victories at prestigious events such as the Yangzhou Jianzhen International Half Marathon and the Dubai Marathon. He has also achieved impressive results at major marathons, including a second-place finish at the London Marathon and a silver medal at the World Athletics Championships.

Loza Abera Geinore is a talented Ethiopian professional footballer known for her skills as a forward. She currently plays for USL W League club Virginia Marauders and represents the Ethiopia women's national team. Prior to her current roles, she gained valuable experience playing for Nigd Bank in the Ethiopian Women's Premier League. With a promising career ahead of her, Loza Abera continues to showcase her passion for the sport and contribute significantly to her teams both at the domestic and international levels.

Tsegaye Kebede Wordofa is an Ethiopian long-distance runner known for his success in road running events, particularly marathons. He gained international recognition in 2007 with a strong performance at the Amsterdam Marathon. Kebede went on to win prestigious races such as the Paris Marathon and the Fukuoka Marathon, as well as earning a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. In subsequent years, he continued to excel, achieving podium finishes at events like the London Marathon and World Championships in Athletics. Kebede's impressive career includes victories at major marathons like the London Marathon in 2010 and 2013.

Kenenisa Bekele Beyecha is an Ethiopian long-distance runner known for his remarkable achievements in cross country, track, and road racing. He held world records in the 5,000m and 10,000m for many years and has won numerous Olympic and World Championship titles in these events. Bekele is also highly successful in marathon running, setting impressive records and winning prestigious races. Regarded by many as the greatest distance runner of all time, his career is marked by dominance and excellence across various distances and terrains.

Alemu Bekele Gebre is an Ethiopian-born professional long-distance runner competing for Bahrain. Specializing in the 5000m and 10,000m races, he has excelled on the international stage. Bekele transferred to Bahrain as a junior athlete, achieving notable success at various championships. He secured bronze medals in the 5000m and 3000m events before claiming the 10,000m title and 5000m silver at the Asian Athletics Championships. Additionally, he has triumphed in cross country competitions, winning the Asian and World Military championships and participating in the IAAF World Cross Country Championships multiple times.

Feyisa Lilesa is an accomplished Oromo long-distance runner from Ethiopia. He has achieved significant success in marathons, setting impressive personal best times and winning prestigious races such as the Dublin Marathon and Xiamen International Marathon. Throughout his career, he has earned medals at major events like the World Championships and the Rio Olympics. Feyisa gained international attention for his brave gesture in solidarity with the Oromo people during the 2016 Rio Olympics. Despite facing challenges, he continues to excel in his professional running career.

Tariku Bekele Beyecha is an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner known for his expertise in the 5,000 and 10,000 metres. He has achieved significant success in various competitions, including winning the 3,000 metres gold medal at the 2008 IAAF World Indoor Championships. Tariku has also secured medals at the World Junior Championships, All-Africa Games, and the Summer Olympics. With notable performances in both indoor and outdoor events, he has established himself as one of the top Ethiopian runners in the 5,000 metres category.

Gezahegne Abera is a retired Ethiopian athlete who had a successful career in marathon running. He achieved notable victories at the 2000 Summer Olympics, 2001 World Championships, and London Marathon in 2003. Despite facing injuries that eventually led to the end of his running career, Gezahegne transitioned into entrepreneurship with his wife, owning a hotel and property development business. His athletic achievements and business ventures showcase his determination and versatility in pursuing success beyond the track.

Alia Saeed Mohammed is a prominent long-distance runner representing the United Arab Emirates. After switching her allegiance from Ethiopia in 2010, she quickly made a name for herself in the world of athletics. Known for her outstanding performances, she has achieved significant success in various competitions, including winning the gold medal in the 10,000 meters at the 2014 Asian Games and the 2015 Asian Athletics Championships. Additionally, she secured a silver medal at the 2017 Asian Athletics Championships, showcasing her talent and determination on the track.

Sileshi Sihine is a retired Ethiopian long-distance runner known for his success in the 10,000 meters event. He achieved silver medals at the 2004 Athens Olympics and the 2008 Beijing Olympics, as well as at the 2005 and 2007 World Championships. Sileshi also secured a bronze medal in 2003 and a silver medal in the 5,000 meters event at the 2005 World Championships. Throughout his career, he demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication to his sport, leaving a lasting impact on the world of long-distance running.

Birhanu Legese Gurmesa is an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner known for his impressive achievements in marathon races. He has secured victories at the prestigious Tokyo Marathon in both 2019 and 2020, showcasing his exceptional endurance and skill. Additionally, Legese has demonstrated his competitive spirit by finishing as the runner-up at the 2019 Berlin Marathon. He is currently associated with the NN Running Team, under the management of Global Sports Communication, further solidifying his reputation as a top athlete in the world of long-distance running.

Hagos Gebrhiwet Berhe is an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner known for holding the World Junior Record in the 5,000 meters. He has showcased exceptional talent and dedication in his career, achieving significant milestones in the sport. Gebrhiwet's impressive performances have garnered attention and respect within the running community, solidifying his reputation as a top athlete in the long-distance events. With a focus on continuous improvement and success, he remains a prominent figure in the world of competitive running, inspiring fans and fellow athletes alike.

Luciano Vassallo was a skilled footballer who played as a midfielder for the Ethiopia national team in the 1960s. He captained the team to victory at the 1962 African Cup of Nations, the only trophy Ethiopia has won to date. Vassallo was renowned for his expertise in volleys, free kicks, and penalties. He played professionally for Cotton Factory Club, where he showcased his talents alongside his half-brother Italo.

Italo Vassallo was an Italian-Eritrean footballer who played for Ethiopia internationally. He is known for his notable performance in the 1962 Africa Cup of Nations final victory over Egypt, where he scored a crucial goal. Vassallo's skill and contribution to the Ethiopian team during his professional career left a lasting impact on African football. His dedication and talent on the field have earned him a respected place in the history of the sport.

Sisay Lemma, an Ethiopian runner, started his professional career at the age of 17 running barefoot due to financial constraints. Overcoming obstacles, he went on to achieve significant milestones in his career. In 2021, he emerged victorious in the London Marathon, showcasing his exceptional skills and determination. He also competed in the men's marathon event at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, further solidifying his reputation as a talented athlete on the international stage. Sisay Lemma's journey is a testament to his perseverance and dedication to the sport of running.

Ibrahim Jeilan Gashu is an Ethiopian professional long-distance runner specializing in the 5000 meters and 10,000 meters on the track, as well as cross country running. He has achieved significant success in his career, including winning the World Junior Cross Country Championships and a gold medal at the IAAF World Junior Championships in Athletics. Ibrahim has also secured titles at various races and championships, demonstrating his talent and dedication to the sport. Currently based in Saitama, Japan, he is coached by Kiyoshi Akimoto.

Amedework Walelegn is an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner known for his impressive performances in various international competitions. He has achieved notable successes, including winning the silver medal at the 2017 IAAF World Cross Country Championships and setting records at events like the Istanbul Half Marathon. Walelegn has consistently demonstrated his talent and determination, as seen through his podium finishes and personal best times in half marathons. His remarkable achievements highlight his status as a top competitor in the world of long-distance running.

Belayneh Densamo is an Ethiopian retired athlete known for his prowess in long-distance running. He made a significant mark in the athletic world by holding the marathon world record for an impressive 10-year period from 1988 to 1998. Throughout his career, Densamo represented Ethiopia in prestigious events such as the 1992 and 1996 Summer Olympics, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to his sport. His achievements and contributions have solidified his legacy as one of the greats in the world of long-distance running.

Gete Wami Degife is a retired Ethiopian long-distance runner known for her exceptional performances in cross country, track, and road events. Throughout her career, she achieved great success and garnered international recognition for her talent and dedication to the sport. Her competitive spirit and relentless drive helped her secure numerous victories and accolades, solidifying her reputation as one of the top long-distance runners of her time. Gete Wami's remarkable achievements continue to inspire aspiring athletes around the world.

Deriba Merga Ejigu is an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner known for his success in marathon and half marathon races. He achieved a notable fourth-place finish at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and secured victory at the prestigious Boston Marathon in the following year. With a personal best marathon time of 2:06:38 hours, he has demonstrated his exceptional endurance and speed on various competitive platforms. Additionally, Merga's triumphs in events like the Paris Half Marathon and the All-Africa Games showcase his consistent dedication and skill in the world of distance running.

Fatuma Roba is an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner, renowned for her historic achievements in marathon running. She made history by becoming the first African woman to secure a gold medal in the women's Olympic marathon event, triumphing at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Roba's success extended beyond the Olympics, as she clinched victory in three consecutive Boston Marathons, solidifying her reputation as a dominant force in long-distance running. Her remarkable achievements have solidified her legacy as one of the most successful and celebrated athletes in her field.

Ababel Yeshaneh Birhane is an accomplished Ethiopian long-distance runner who excels in track, road, and cross country competitions. She has represented her country at various international events, including the World Championships and the Olympic Games, achieving notable results such as a ninth-place finish in the 10,000 meters at the 2013 World Championships and a 14th place in the 5000 meters at the 2016 Olympics. In February 2020, she made history by breaking the world record in the half marathon, and she also boasts an impressive marathon best time of 2:20:51.

Tesfaye Tola is an accomplished long-distance runner from Ethiopia, known for his impressive performances in various international competitions. He clinched a bronze medal in the marathon at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney and finished fourth in the same event at the 2001 World Championships. Tola also won the IAAF World Cross Country Championships in 1998. His participation in the 2007 World Championships in Osaka further showcased his talent and dedication to the sport, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier athlete on the global stage.

Elfenesh Alemu is a renowned long-distance runner from Ethiopia who has achieved significant success in her career. She represented Ethiopia in the marathon at the 2000 and 2004 Summer Olympics and emerged victorious in the 2003 Tokyo International Marathon. Alemu began her professional running career in 1993 and went on to win the Nagano Marathon in 2000. Her dedication and talent have solidified her position as a top athlete in the world of long-distance running.