World 100m hurdles champion and record holder Tobi Amusan made a solid return to action, finishing second in her season opener at the Velocity Fest in Jamaica.
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Competing over the 200m, Amusan clocked 23.25 seconds to place behind Olympic champion Elaine Thompson-Herah, who powered to victory in 22.61 seconds. Fellow Jamaican Ackera Nugent finished third in 23.35 seconds.
Despite it not being her primary event, Amusan’s performance offered a positive indication of her early-season form, showing speed and sharpness as she begins preparations for another demanding year on the global stage.
The Nigerian star remains one of the most accomplished hurdlers in world athletics. She holds the world record in the women’s 100m hurdles (12.12s), set during the semi-finals of the 2022 World Championships in Eugene, Oregon—a performance that cemented her place in history.
In addition to her world record, Amusan is the reigning Commonwealth and African champion in the 100m hurdles, consistently dominating the event on the continental stage while remaining a strong contender globally.
Her decision to open the season in the 200m reflects a strategic approach to building speed endurance ahead of her hurdles campaign.
With major competitions on the horizon, including global championships and elite circuit meets, this early outing serves as a foundation for peak performance later in the season.
Encouraging signs for Nigeria’s sprint queen—Amusan is up and running, and the 2026 season is officially underway.
