The 20 Fastest Men’s Marathon Performances of All Time (As of April 2025)

PHOTO. VIA SEAN HARTNETT

1. Kelvin Kiptum – 2:00:35 (Chicago 2023)Kelvin Kiptum’s 2:00:35 at the 2023 Chicago Marathon wasn't just a win—it was a seismic shift in marathon history. Shattering Eliud Kipchoge’s previous world record by 34 seconds, Kiptum became the first man to come within striking distance of the elusive sub-two-hour barrier in a sanctioned race. His negative splits and seemingly effortless stride left spectators in awe. Tragically, Kiptum passed away in a car accident in early 2024, but his legacy endures. ​

2. Eliud Kipchoge – 2:01:09 (Berlin 2022)Eliud Kipchoge, often hailed as the greatest marathoner, reaffirmed his dominance with a 2:01:09 in Berlin 2022. At 37, he showcased that age is just a number, executing a masterclass in pacing and strategy. His performance solidified his legendary status and inspired runners worldwide. ​

3. Kelvin Kiptum – 2:01:25 (London 2023)Before his Chicago triumph, Kiptum made waves in London with a 2:01:25 finish. His ability to accelerate in the latter stages, leaving elite competitors behind, hinted at his extraordinary potential and set the stage for his world record later that year. ​

4. Eliud Kipchoge – 2:01:39 (Berlin 2018)In 2018, Kipchoge delivered what many considered the perfect race. His 2:01:39 not only broke the existing world record by a significant margin but also demonstrated his unparalleled consistency and mental fortitude. ​

5. Kenenisa Bekele – 2:01:41 (Berlin 2019)Bekele, a legend on the track, nearly dethroned Kipchoge with a 2:01:41 in Berlin. His performance, just two seconds shy of the world record, was a testament to his enduring talent and competitive spirit. ​

6. Sisay Lemma – 2:01:48 (Valencia 2023)Lemma's 2:01:48 in Valencia was a breakout performance, marking him as one of the fastest marathoners ever. His aggressive pacing and determination paid off, earning him a spot among the elite. ​

7. Kelvin Kiptum – 2:01:53 (Valencia 2022)Kiptum's debut marathon in Valencia was nothing short of spectacular. Clocking 2:01:53, he immediately positioned himself among the greats, signaling the arrival of a new force in distance running. ​

8. Sabastian Sawe – 2:02:05 (Valencia 2024)Sawe's 2:02:05 in Valencia showcased his incredible potential. His performance added depth to the already competitive Kenyan marathon scene and hinted at future showdowns with the best. ​

9. Benson Kipruto – 2:02:16 (Tokyo 2024)Kipruto's Tokyo run was a masterclass in resilience and strategy. His 2:02:16 finish demonstrated his ability to perform on the world stage and solidified his status as a top contender. ​

10. Eliud Kipchoge – 2:02:37 (London 2019)Kipchoge's consistency is unparalleled. His 2:02:37 in London added another stellar performance to his illustrious career, further cementing his legacy. ​

11. Deresa Geleta – 2:02:38 (Valencia 2024)Geleta's performance in Valencia was a significant personal best, placing him among the fastest ever and highlighting Ethiopia's depth in marathon talent. ​

12. Eliud Kipchoge – 2:02:40 (Tokyo 2022)Even in Tokyo's challenging conditions, Kipchoge delivered a remarkable 2:02:40, showcasing his adaptability and relentless pursuit of excellence. ​

13. Eliud Kipchoge – 2:02:42 (Berlin 2023)Kipchoge's Berlin 2023 run added yet another sub-2:03 finish to his resume, underscoring his dominance and consistency at the highest level. ​

14. John Korir – 2:02:44 (Chicago 2024)Korir's 2:02:44 in Chicago was a breakthrough, marking him as a rising star in the marathon world and adding excitement to future competitions. ​

15. Birhanu Legese – 2:02:48 (Berlin 2019)Legese's performance in Berlin was a significant achievement, placing him among the top marathoners and contributing to Ethiopia's rich running heritage

16. Mosinet Geremew – 2:02:55 (London 2019)Geremew's 2:02:55 at the 2019 London Marathon was a massive breakthrough. Not only did he push Kipchoge harder than almost anyone ever had, but he also announced himself as a world-class racer who could hang with the GOAT. Calm, collected, and powerful — Geremew showed that patience and belief can carry you to the line in record time.

17. Dennis Kipruto Kimetto – 2:02:57 (Berlin 2014)Before Kipchoge became a household name, Dennis Kimetto shattered the world record with a 2:02:57 at the Berlin Marathon. It was the first sub-2:03 ever, and it felt like a moon landing moment for the sport. Kimetto ran smooth, calculated, and fearless — and for years, his name was etched at the top of marathon history.

18. Gabriel Geay – 2:03:00 (Valencia 2023)Tanzania’s Gabriel Geay made noise in 2023 with a jaw-dropping 2:03:00 in Valencia. It was fast, confident, and a reminder that marathon talent runs deep beyond just Kenya and Ethiopia. Geay’s race wasn’t just about the time — it was about putting Tanzania on the map in the marathon world and proving he could contend anywhere.

19. Evans Chebet – 2:03:00 (Valencia 2020)Evans Chebet delivered a powerhouse performance in Valencia, clocking in at 2:03 flat. While he’s more known for his wins in Boston and New York, this race showed he had the wheels for a record course too. He might not be the flashiest name on this list, but Chebet’s ability to rise to the occasion makes him one of the sport’s most reliable big-race closers.

20. Amos Kipruto – 2:03:13 (Tokyo 2022)Amos Kipruto brought his A-game to Tokyo in 2022, finishing in a blazing 2:03:13. With so many big names in the spotlight, Kipruto’s run was a quiet storm — no drama, just perfect pacing and a hard-earned podium finish. He may not hold records, but he’s always in the conversation, and this race proved why.