By Prosper Mene
Nigeria is officially on the medal table at the first-ever World Athletics Ultimate Championship.
Tobi Amusan delivered Team Nigeria’s first podium finish in Budapest, claiming silver in the women’s 100m hurdles and a $75,000 prize cheque.
The 2022 world champion crossed the line in 12.34 seconds, finishing behind USA’s Olympic champion Masai Russell who won gold in 12.22 seconds. Dutch hurdler Nadine Visser took bronze in 12.39 seconds.
Amusan lined up in lane 3 and had work to do from the start. Russell and Devynne Charlton got out fast and set the early pace, while Amusan stayed within striking distance through the middle barriers.
The turning point came mid-race when Charlton hit a hurdle. Amusan stayed clean, held her form, and powered through the last three flights to lock down second place.
It was a composed run from the former world record holder, and proof that she’s finding her rhythm again after an injury-hit start to the season.
Tobi Amusan hugging Masai Russell after the women’s 100m hurdles final in Budapest.
Speaking to Making of Champs after the race, Amusan didn’t hold back on what she sees coming for the event.
“I think the women’s hurdles is just getting scarier every damn year. I do not know what is going to happen next year, but it’s going to be bloody. Just take whatever you see.”
Her words summed up the depth in the event right now. With Russell taking gold, Visser on the podium, and a returning Amusan in the mix, the women’s 100m hurdles is stacking up to be one of the most competitive races heading into next season.
For Nigeria, Amusan’s silver is more than just a medal. It’s a statement of comeback, and the first of what the country will hope is many at the new championship.
With $75,000 added to her earnings and momentum back on her side, the Nigerian hurdle queen looks set to be right in the fight when the next global showdown comes around.
