Tobi Amusan, Nigeria’s world-record-holding hurdler, has once again written her name in athletics history after winning silver in the women’s 100m hurdles final at the Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships on September 15.
Clocking an impressive 12.29 seconds, Amusan stormed back after a slow start to secure Nigeria’s first medal of the competition. The race was won by Ditaji Kambundji of Switzerland, who set a new national record of 12.24 seconds, while American Grace Stark settled for bronze in 12.34 seconds.
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Masai Russell finished fourth in 12.44 seconds, but the spotlight remained firmly on Amusan, who fought through adversity to earn a place on the podium.
Amusan’s Emotional Words
Speaking after her race, Amusan admitted the pressure of carrying Nigeria’s medal hopes on her shoulders:
“Una no dey try. This my small body, una put the whole country for my back. But this is bigger than me… I come out here, and I do what I have to do for myself and my country. I am glad that any time I come out to a championship, win or lose, I still show up.”
Her remarks reflect both the immense weight of expectation and her determination to keep representing Nigeria with pride.
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The Bigger Picture
This silver medal holds special meaning for Amusan, not only because it adds to her glittering career but also because it comes amid controversies surrounding the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, including complaints about inadequate equipment and athlete welfare. Despite these challenges, she dedicated her medal to her coaches, supporters, and the entire nation.
The performance also revives conversations about how much investment Nigeria must put into its athletes, with fans and officials calling for rewards similar to what other national teams have received in the past.
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Global and National Reactions
Amusan’s achievement has sparked an outpouring of pride and support across the world, with reactions flooding in from fellow athletes, politicians, celebrities, and fans.
From Fellow Athletes
- Usain Bolt: “Tobi Amusan is pure fire! That silver in Tokyo shows why she’s the queen of the hurdles. Nigeria, celebrate your star—she’s carrying the African flame on the world stage.”
- Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce: “Big congrats to my sister Tobi Amusan on that silver medal! That’s champion mentality. Proud of you for repping Africa.”
- Ese Brume: “My sister Tobi Amusan! You did it for Nigeria! First medal of Tokyo 2025—proud to share the track with you.”
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From Politicians
- President Bola Tinubu: “On behalf of all Nigerians, I congratulate Tobi Amusan. This achievement inspires our youth to dream big. We stand with you.”
- Tonobok Okowa (Athletics Federation of Nigeria President): “Despite the distractions, your focus delivered Nigeria’s first medal. Proud of you.”
- Senator Ify Aniocha: “This silver is a victory for every Nigerian girl chasing dreams. Government must reward her adequately.”
From Celebrities
- Wizkid: “Tobi Amusan, you bad! Silver medal and still shining brighter than gold. Naija to the world.”
- Tiwa Savage: “That silver medal got me screaming. Nigerian women rising!”
- Burna Boy: “Despite the BS from the federation, you delivered. African Giant proud.”
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From Fans
- @Luluszn18 on X: “Tobi Amusan deserves $100k from Tinubu just like the Super Falcons. Silver at Worlds after all the drama? She’s our hero.”
- @okeywise on X: “Congrats to Tobi Amusan. Justified her call for business class—Jesus girl delivered!”
