MO FARAH was unable to round off his brilliant track career in style as he failed to claim the world 5,000 metres title at London 2017.
Farah had been hoping to win his 11th major title by completing a World Championships double following his thrilling win in the 10,000m seven days ago.
The 34-year-old is hanging up his spikes to take to the roads in the marathon after a stellar career which has seen him establish himself as one of the all-time greats of the sport.
Yet despite the huge support from the home crowd packed into the London Stadium, Britain’s hero was finally knocked off his perch as the king of long-distance running.
Not since the 10,000m World Championships in Daegu in 2011 had anyone managed to beat the brilliant Londoner in a major final and he was in no mood to round off his career with anything but glory.
He produced another thrilling and brave run knowing he was the man everyone else in the field wanted to beat but just ran out of steam in the dash for home.
Farah said: “It’s been a long journey but it’s been incredible.
“It didn’t quite hit home until after I crossed the line and had a couple of moments to myself when I realised – this is it.
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"I gave it all - I didn't have a single bit left at the end."
In a highly tactical race, Farah had positioned himself just off the pace throughout as he attempted to avoid the jostling that made him work so hard in the 10,000m.
But just as the bell sounded, three Ethiopians all burst forward at the same time, and for 150m Farah was swallowed up and unable to find his way out of the bunch.
Old rival Paul Chelimo then made his move approaching the final bend as he and the British star desperately tried to haul in Muktar Edris and Yomif Kejelcha who had suddenly opened up a five metre gap at the front.
Roared on by the home crowd Farah dug deep coming into the home straight, forcing his way past Chilemo and Kejelcha.
But try as he might he was unable to match the electric finish of Edris and the Ehtiopian took that title with Farah being forced to settle for second.
Fellow Brit Andrew Butchart came home eight as he just failed to match the blistering last lap pace.
He said: "The race went as my coach said it would but I didn't react. They were too quick for me. I am happy with it. It was my first world champs final so I have to walk away pleased.
"I'm gutted for Mo, but he is the best in the world. Look at what he has done. He leaves a legend. I know he will be upset."
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