Des Linden to Retire After 2025 Boston Marathon

Des Linden, 41, has announced that the 2025 Boston Marathon will be her final race as a professional marathoner, marking her 12th appearance in the event. Linden, a two-time Olympian and the 2018 Boston Marathon champion, is celebrated for ending a 33-year drought for American women at Boston with her gritty victory in harsh weather. Her retirement announcement was styled as a heartfelt tribute to Boston, where she debuted in 2007 and built a strong connection with the community. Linden reflected on her past races, including her narrow second-place finish in 2011, and credited Boston's support for her eventual triumph. While stepping away from professional marathoning, she will remain active in the sport by focusing on trail and ultra-marathons, mentoring, and product development with Brooks Running. Linden is recognized as a Boston legend and expressed gratitude for the support she has received throughout her career.