Assefa's world record bid derailed by late cramps in Berlin

Assefa maintained an aggressive schedule through much of the race in the German capital, positioning herself to challenge the women's marathon world record. However, the final two kilometres proved decisive, as debilitating cramps forced the Ethiopian to lose momentum in the closing stages.

The setback denied Assefa what would have been a landmark achievement in the sport, though her final time still secured a competitive finish at one of Europe's most prestigious marathons. Athletes frequently encounter late-race physical challenges during marathon competitions, with cramping common among runners pushing extreme pace over the full 42-kilometre distance.

Berlin has long been regarded as a fast course for marathon running, attracting elite distance runners seeking optimal conditions for record attempts. Sunday's race reinforced the unpredictability of marathon competition, where even meticulously prepared athletes can face unexpected physical obstacles in the final stages.

Assefa's performance underscores the fine margins separating record-breaking runs from merely excellent ones in elite distance racing, where marginal declines in physical condition can significantly impact final times over the gruelling distance.