Nigeria’s sprint queen, Tobi Amusan, showed her class again on Monday as she won silver in the women’s 100m hurdles at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
Amusan, who holds the world record, ran 12.29 seconds in a tight race but finished just behind Switzerland’s Ditaji Kambundji, who claimed gold in 12.24 seconds, setting a new national record for her country.
The United States’ Grace Stark completed the podium with 12.34 seconds, while her compatriot Masai Russell came fourth in 12.44 seconds.
At 28, Amusan was aiming to reclaim the world title she made history with in Oregon in 2022, when she became the first Nigerian and first African to win the 100m hurdles crown.
Although the gold slipped away, Amusan’s silver medal adds to her already packed career achievements, including her unbeaten world record of 12.12 seconds, Commonwealth Games gold, and several Diamond League trophies.
Her performance in Tokyo is also a comeback story, as she failed to reach the finals at the Paris Olympics.
The Nigerian star kept her head high after the race, saying the silver still meant a lot. “It was a tough race, but I gave it everything. I’m proud to be back on the podium for Nigeria,” she said.
Kambundji, who stunned the field with her winning run, also praised Amusan after the contest. “Tobi is a great competitor. To beat the world record holder is special, and I respect her so much,” she told reporters.
