Nigeria’s world-record holder Tobi Amusan has stormed into the final of the women’s 100m hurdles at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo after a sensational performance in the semifinals.
The defending champion won her heat in commanding fashion, crossing the line in 12.36 seconds with a reaction time of 0.172 to secure automatic qualification for tonight’s final.
Amusan, who has been in top form throughout the championships, once again demonstrated her unrivalled speed and composure over the barriers, leaving her rivals trailing behind.
The Nigerian hurdling star finished ahead of Nadine Visser of the Netherlands, who clocked 12.45 seconds, and Poland’s Pia Skrzyszowska, who ran 12.53 seconds.
Both secured qualification but were no match for Amusan’s electric pace. The rest of the field included Alaysha Johnson of the United States with 12.66 seconds, Elena Carraro of Italy who set a personal best of 12.79 seconds, Jamaica’s Amoi Brown with 12.93 seconds, Japan’s Hitomi Nakajima who posted 13.02 seconds, and Finland’s Saara Keskitalo also finishing in 13.02 seconds.
Amusan had earlier eased through her first-round heat in 12.53 seconds, advancing comfortably without needing to hit top gear. Her semifinal performance, however, underlined her intent to defend her title and reassert her dominance in an event where she remains the world record holder with her stunning 12.12 seconds set in 2022.
The final, set for later tonight at the Tokyo National Stadium, is expected to deliver fireworks as Amusan lines up against a field packed with talent and ambition. With her blistering semifinal time and proven pedigree on the biggest stage, the Nigerian remains the clear favourite, though she will face stiff competition from Visser, Skrzyszowska, and the rest of the finalists.
All eyes now turn to Tokyo as Tobi Amusan prepares to chase another global crown in what promises to be a thrilling 100m hurdles final
