Former World Under-20 800m Champion and 2017 Bronze Medalist, Kipyegon Bett, has tragically passed away at the age of 26 after a prolonged illness.
Bett succumbed to complications related to liver and kidney failure, according to his family.
He passed away at Tenwek Hospital in Bomet, Kenya, leaving the athletics community and his loved ones in mourning.
Bett’s sister, Purity Kirui, who is also an athlete, shared that he had struggled with depression since 2018, following a four-year ban from athletics due to a doping violation issued by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).
Kirui explained that the ban had a significant impact on Bett’s mental health, pushing him into depression and contributing to subsequent struggles with alcoholism.
“Since his suspension, he suffered deep frustration and was unable to overcome the depression it caused.
He turned to alcohol, which only worsened his health,” said Kirui, who is a 3,000-meter steeplechase runner.
She added that a week before his passing, Bett had been taken to Litein Hospital after vomiting blood.
Following treatment, he was discharged but advised to return for further medical care.
Bett’s condition deteriorated on Friday when he began vomiting blood again, prompting his transfer to Tenwek Hospital for urgent care.
Despite doctors’ efforts to stabilize him, Bett passed away around noon on Sunday.
His sister shared that his passing has left the family devastated and in shock at the loss of such a young life filled with potential.
The family is currently preparing funeral arrangements, and Kirui expressed that they will announce the details in the coming days.
Bett’s death not only highlights the struggles athletes can face under the pressure of international competition and personal setbacks but also brings attention to the need for mental health support within the sports community.
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