Nigeria’s world record holder Tobi Amusan took silver in the women’s 100m hurdles at the world championships in Tokyo on Monday.
The 28-year-old sprint icon clocked 12.29sec but was narrowly beaten to the line by Switzerland’s Ditaji Kambundji, who stormed to gold in a national record time of 12.24s.
American Grace Stark claimed bronze in 12.34sec, while Olympic champion Masai Russell finished fourth with 12.44sec.
Amusan claimed the title in 2022 in Eugene
Tobi Amusan, who made history in 2022, where she clocked her world record of 12.12, thus becoming the first Nigerian and African to win the 100m hurdles world title in Oregon, was aiming to reclaim her crown.
Though she fell just short of gold, her silver medal further cements her status as one of the sport’s all-time greats, adding to her world record (12.12s), multiple Diamond League titles, and Commonwealth Games gold.
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After missing the final at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Amusan’s performance in Tokyo is a resounding response to critics and proof that she remains among the world’s best.
Nigeria’s medal hopes in Tokyo are not over yet.
Ezekiel Nathaniel advanced to the semifinals of the men’s 400m hurdles after running 48.37 seconds in the heats.
The 21-year-old, one of Africa’s fastest-rising hurdlers, kept his composure in a competitive race and will look to qualify for the final on Wednesday as he sets his sights on a podium finish.