Harry Styles has once again captured the world’s attention, but not for a new album, a headline-making fashion moment, or a surprise appearance at a major event. Instead, the pop superstar has been making headlines for his dedication to running, most recently completing the 2025 Berlin Marathon under cover and under three hours. The feat, achieved on September 21, 2025, marks a significant milestone for Styles, who finished the race with a time of 2:59:13, a major improvement from his Tokyo Marathon time earlier this year.
Styles, known for his boundary-pushing music and style, chose to run incognito at the Berlin Marathon, using the pseudonym Sted Sarandos and wearing a grey headband and sunglasses. The name is a playful nod to Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos, adding a touch of humor to his low-key participation. With race number 31261, Styles blended in with the more than 50,000 runners on one of the world’s fastest and flattest marathon courses. His time not only met the coveted sub-three-hour mark but also demonstrated his commitment to pushing his physical limits.
This achievement comes after Styles ran the Tokyo Marathon in March, where he clocked in at 3:24:07. His improvement in Berlin is a testament to his training and determination. Local newspaper Der Tagesspiegel was the first to report his participation, sparking excitement among fans and running enthusiasts alike. The marathon, broadcasted live on platforms like FloTrack, saw Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe take the top spot with a time of 2:02:16, but the global spotlight quickly shifted to Styles, whose presence added a unique twist to the event.
Styles’ recent focus on running is part of a broader trend of stepping back from the public eye. He has stayed out of the spotlight for most of 2025, skipping major awards season events and notably absent from the 2025 Met Gala. His last major public appearance was in Berlin, far from the glitz and glamour of red carpets. This shift aligns with his long-standing desire for a smaller, more private life despite his immense fame. In a 2022 Rolling Stone interview, Styles spoke candidly about his preference for keeping his personal life a mystery, stating, “I’ve never talked about my life away from work publicly and found that it’s benefited me positively.”
His dedication to running has also extended to supporting local running communities. Earlier this year, Styles was seen hyping up a running club in London, further endearing himself to fans who appreciate his down-to-earth approach. His participation in marathons and support for running clubs highlight a side of Styles that values physical challenge and community over celebrity spectacle.
Despite the absence of new music or major public appearances, Styles continues to make headlines. Rumors of a potential Las Vegas residency at the Sphere were recently shut down by his spokesperson, who clarified that there have never been plans for such a residency. Instead, Styles seems focused on personal growth and physical achievements, setting an example for fans and fellow celebrities alike.
As the world watches to see where Styles will run next, one thing is clear: his journey is about more than just music and fashion. It’s about pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and living life on his own terms. Whether on stage or on the marathon course, Harry Styles continues to inspire with his authenticity and determination.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
