As of October 8, 2023, the current world record for the mens marathon is 2 hours, 0 minutes, and 35 seconds, set by Kelvin Kiptum of Kenya at the 2023 Chicago Marathon. The previous record was also set by Kiptum at the 2022 Berlin Marathon, with a time of 2 hours, 1 minute, and 9 seconds.

For women, the current world record is 2 hours, 11 minutes, and 53 seconds, set by Tigst Assefa of Ethiopia at the 2023 Berlin Marathon. The previous record was set by Brigid Kosgei of Kenya at the 2019 Chicago Marathon, with a time of 2 hours, 14 minutes, and 4 seconds.

Its worth noting that there are also world records for lesser distances recognized by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), such as 20 km and 30 km, that can be credited to marathon runners if established during a marathon.