Chepkoech noted that most competitors were reluctant to exert themselves in the race in the aftermath of a gruelling schedule in Budapest where the global showpiece began on August 19.

“I think today it was so easy because we did not want to push hard after the World Championships in Budapest. You know, in Budapest we went out hard, and I felt that my body was shutting down, but after running that global final my body started to coming back up again,” the 2019 World Champion said.

Chepkoech clocked 9:03.70 to finish second, behind winner and World Champion Winfred Yavi of Bahrain who stopped the timer at 9:03.19.

Another Kenyan, world bronze medalist Faith Cherotich claimed the final podium place in 9:07.59 to complete a reincarnation of the top three places at the World Championships.

The world record holder for the women’s 3000m steeplechase revealed she had been getting a lot of rest and sleep ahead of the Diamond League meet.

She also saluted the crowd for a rapturous atmosphere that propelled her to the finish line.

“In the last few days I just focused on some easy running, resting and getting a lot of sleep. Of course running out here in front of such an amazing crowd, it really motivates me. All this cheering makes my happy. It is a full stadium,” she said.

Speaking at the same time, Kenyan-born Yavi said the race was an opportunity for her to confirm that her first world title in the Hungarian capital was no fluke.

“I have dreamed about this for a long time and it makes me feel that I have to believe in myself and to keep on believing. I am very excited – today, it felt almost like the same race as in Budapest so I wanted to confirm my victory,” Yavi said.

The Asian 5000m champion still has a busy schedule ahead including the remaining legs of the Diamond League as well as the Asian Games but the 23-year-old remains unperturbed by the huge expectations on her shoulders.  

” I have been working hard and training hard to be a world champion. And to win the Diamond League in Zurich – that was my next dream. My program is still full – I have the final in Eugene and then the Asian Games. Still long season to go but I feel strong. I am enjoying my victory today as the crowd is cheering so much and the stadium is full – it is an honour to be here. Now, this is giving me a big motivation and I know I can be better than this,” she said.

The next leg of the Diamond League series will be in Xiamen, China on Saturday.