Paula Radcliffe Says Goodbye to the Roads After Emotional Boston Marathon Finish

Longtime fans of Paula Radcliffe were left with full hearts and misty eyes this week, as the marathon legend confirmed that her days of competitive road racing have come to a close.

After crossing the finish line of the 2025 Boston Marathon, Radcliffe announced it would be her final race on the roads a milestone that marks the end of a truly iconic chapter in the world of distance running.

The 51-year-old Brit, who once reigned supreme as the women’s marathon world record holder for a staggering 16 years, completed the Boston course in 2 hours, 53 minutes, and 44 seconds.

That time wasn’t just a personal victory it earned her the elusive Six Star Medal, a distinction reserved for those who complete all six of the World Marathon Majors: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York.

Though officially retired since 2015, Radcliffe surprised many by jumping back into the marathon circuit this year. She first returned to action in Tokyo, and Boston marked the final stop on that journey.

“Wow, thank you Boston,” she wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post. “My calf went at mile 9 so I couldn’t push like I wanted to, but my foot held up, and I got to enjoy the crowds one last time. That’s it for me on the roads. My body’s told me it's done.”

Despite the setback mid-race, Radcliffe pushed through with characteristic determination, giving her fans one last glimpse of the grit and resilience that made her a legend.

For Radcliffe, the Six Star Medal is more than a symbol of completion it’s a deeply personal triumph. Her marathon legacy includes three victories each in London and New York, plus a win in Chicago.

And of course, her historic time of 2:15:25 at the 2003 London Marathon, which stood unchallenged until 2019, remains one of the sport’s most iconic moments.

In her final message, she signed off with the hashtag #endoftheroad, a simple but powerful signal that her racing days are truly behind her.

Even after stepping away from professional racing a decade ago, Radcliffe's return to the marathon stage this year served as a moving farewell tour and a reminder of her enduring love for the sport.

Her run in Boston may not have been her fastest, but it was one of her most meaningful. The crowd showed up, the emotions ran high, and Radcliffe, as always, gave it everything she had.

Off the course, Radcliffe has continued to serve the running community as a mentor, commentator, and strong voice for clean sport. With this final race now behind her, the curtain falls on a career defined not just by records, but by heart, integrity, and unwavering passion.