When it comes to long-distance running, Sifan Hassan has already cemented her place in the history books. But her story is about so much more than an awe-inspiring collection of medals and world records. Incredible grit, openness and determination led her to where she is today.
▲ Sifan Hassan of Team Netherlands competes in the women’s marathon. (Photo by Michael Steele / Getty Images)
Hassan has been chasing challenges her whole life. At the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, she fell during the women’s 1,500-meter race and yet went on to qualify for the semi-finals. She was almost hit by a motorbike while grabbing water at the 2023 London Marathon but went on to win gold at her first competitive marathon ever. The Olympic Games Paris 2024 was no exception. Hassan set the extremely ambitious goal of competing in three consecutive long-distance races over the span of one week.
Samsung Newsroom caught up with Hassan shortly after her epic performance in Paris to learn more about her Olympic experience and find out what drives her.
▲ Sifan Hassan
Competing in three long-distance events at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 was an ambitious choice — but ambition seems to be your trademark. What motivates you to take on these seemingly impossible challenges?
I’m a curious person, and I get bored with routines. Training for something I had already done in Tokyo felt repetitive. I wanted to try something new that no one else or only a few others had done before. It seemed hard, but I wanted to see just how hard it was. That’s what motivated me!
How did you start preparing to compete in all three events? Did you develop a unique strategy to tackle each one?
I always try to be a complete athlete and train for different distances. The marathon was probably the most important event to me at the Olympic Games, so I focused a lot on it. But I gave the other distances the same dedication to be ready for anything.
How did technology support your journey to the Olympic Games Paris 2024? Were there any specific tools or devices that made a difference in your training or performance?
I am often away from my family and friends for altitude training and races, so being able to video call them when I want using my Galaxy S24 Ultra is crucial. I also own a Galaxy wearable device connected my smartphone which is so lightweight that I forget I have it on when running. The device shares insights to help me know and listen to my body better — especially when it comes to sleep, an essential part of my training.
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You took the lead in the final sprint and set a new Olympic Games record. How did you feel?
To be honest, it felt like a firework went off in my head. I stayed focused all the way to the finish line, even up to the last 10 meters, because I was afraid of falling. In a marathon, you never know what can happen. It was just pure happiness when I crossed the finish line.
You competed in the marathon just 35 hours after winning the bronze medal in the 10,000–meter race. How did you manage to rest and recover in such a short amount of time?
I knew sleep and nutrition were going to be key from the start — not just in between the 10,000-meter race and the marathon but throughout the entire Olympic Games. I tried to stay away from any distractions and got as much sleep as possible!
▲ (From left) Silver medalist Beatrice Chebet of Team Kenya, gold medalist Faith Kipyegon of Team Kenya and bronze medalist Sifan Hassan of Team Netherlands pose for a Victory Selfie after the women’s 5,000-meter final. (Photo by Andy Astfalck / BSR Agency / Getty Images)
It was the first time the women’s marathon medal ceremony was held at the closing ceremony. How did that feel?
To think that millions of people were watching felt very special. It was nice to have my fellow Dutch athletes right next to me on the course, cheering me on.
In the Voices of Galaxy video, you mentioned the importance of maintaining a strong mindset as an Olympic athlete. What are some ways you stay focused and positive?
I always try to be grateful for everything I’ve accomplished. Before the Olympic Games, I was already thankful just to have qualified for different events and to be able to compete. You can’t take everything for granted and simply move on from achievements you’ve worked hard for. It’s important to recognize how far you’ve come and appreciate the progress.
▲ Sifan Hassan of Team Netherlands celebrates after winning the women’s marathon. (Photo by Cameron Spencer / Getty Images)
You completed the marathon at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 in 2 hours, 22 minutes and 55 seconds. While this is an incredibly fast time, running for that long still requires immense mental endurance. What went through your mind during the run?
Racing is the most exciting part! I just focused on staying with the lead pack for as long as possible.
Do you have a message for your fellow Team Samsung Galaxy members who are competing at the Paralympic Games Paris 2024?
I am so inspired by the athletes. They know better than anyone else that the human mind is unbelievably powerful. I wish them the best!
What challenge are you taking on next?
It’s a tough question to answer. The Olympic Games are obviously the highest point in our sport, so this was the big goal. I plan to take some time to appreciate everything I’ve done to get here and carefully think of next steps as I return to training!
What’s your message to the next generation who looks up to you and is inspired by your achievements and drive?
Sports are so important. They make you healthier, help you live longer and encourage you to set goals in all areas of your life. Please exercise and try to inspire the people around you to do the same!