Abeba Aregawi

Women's 1500m at Moscow 2013

Abeba Aregawi Moscow 2013

Diamond blue

Diamond blue

Diamond blue

Abeba Aregawi is a middle-distance runner who specializes in the 1500 meters. Born on July 5, 1990, in Adigrat, Ethiopia, Aregawi has represented both Ethiopia and Sweden in international competitions. She has garnered attention for her impressive performances on the track, including winning gold medals at the World Championships and European Championships.

Early Life and Career

Abeba Aregawi was born and raised in Ethiopia, where she began her athletic career. She showed early promise in middle-distance running, particularly in the 1500 meters, which would become her specialty. Aregawi's talent was evident from her performances in local and national competitions in Ethiopia.

International Career

Aregawi's international career took off when she started competing for Ethiopia in various international competitions. Her breakthrough came at the 2012 World Indoor Championships in Istanbul, where she won the gold medal in the 1500 meters. This victory marked her as a rising star in middle-distance running.

In 2012, Aregawi decided to compete for Sweden, the country she moved to after marrying a Swedish citizen. This switch in national allegiance allowed her to represent Sweden in the European Championships and the Olympics. Aregawi's success continued with her new national team, winning gold in the 1500 meters at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow and the 2013 European Indoor Championships in Gothenburg.

Controversies

Abeba Aregawi's career has not been without controversy. In 2016, she was provisionally suspended after testing positive for meldonium, a substance banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Aregawi claimed she had taken the substance before it was banned and was unaware it had been added to the prohibited list. Later that year, her suspension was lifted after it was determined that she had taken the substance before it was officially banned.

Comeback

After her suspension, Aregawi made a comeback to competitive running. She continued to compete in international competitions, although she has not matched her previous levels of success. Aregawi's determination to return to the sport and compete at a high level, despite the setbacks, has been noted by fans and commentators alike.

Impact and Legacy

Abeba Aregawi's impact on middle-distance running, particularly the 1500 meters, has been significant. Her achievements have inspired many young athletes, especially those from Ethiopia and Sweden, to pursue careers in athletics. Aregawi's story is also a testament to the challenges and controversies that athletes can face in their careers, including issues related to doping and national allegiance.