World record holder Tobi Amusan insists she is feeling no pressure to maintain her dominant form this season, despite clinching another impressive victory at the Paris Diamond League on Sunday.
The Nigerian sprint hurdler equalled her season’s best time of 12.28 seconds to win the women’s 100m hurdles, finishing comfortably ahead of American duo Grace Stark (12.38s) and Alaysha Johnson (12.39s), who claimed second and third place respectively.
Sunday’s triumph marked the third time the 29-year-old has clocked 12.28s this season, having previously posted identical times at the Xiamen Diamond League and the Rabat Diamond League in May.
The victory was her second on the Diamond League circuit this year, following her success in Rabat, and adds to an already impressive campaign that includes gold at the African Championships in Botswana and a win at the New Taipei City Athletics Open earlier this month.
Despite her blistering form, Amusan played down any suggestions that she is feeling the weight of expectation. The Nigerian star, who won three consecutive Diamond League titles between 2021 and 2023, is currently chasing a fourth crown and has recorded the second-fastest time in the world this season behind only American Masai Russell’s 12.14s.
Speaking to the Diamond League website Amusan remained characteristically relaxed about her prospects. “I do not like the warm weather at all, but whatever the weather, I was going to come out here and kill it,” she said. “My execution was alright. I am just happy to be injury free.”
The Nigerian athlete, known for her composure under pressure, dismissed any concerns about the demands of maintaining her elite level. “The pressure does not get to me,” she stated firmly. “I have grace, a very strong support system around me, and that finish line. So I am never worried about pressure on the night.”
Amusan offered insight into her mental approach to racing, revealing that her performance can vary significantly from one event to another. “My approach to the hurdles varies. Sometimes you are thinking about what has just happened. Other days, it is really sloppy and I still come out and run a fast time. I try to take a shot at every race.”
The world record holder has been in exceptional form throughout the 2026 season, demonstrating remarkable consistency with three identical 12.28-second performances. Her ability to deliver top-tier results regardless of conditions or preparation has established her as one of the most reliable performers on the circuit.
Looking ahead, Amusan confirmed she will compete at the Prefontaine Classic, one of the premier meets on the Diamond League calendar. However, she remains undecided about her schedule beyond that event. “I’ll be competing at the Prefontaine Classic next, but I am yet to decide where to race after that,” she revealed.
The Nigerian’s campaign this season has been carefully managed to peak at the right moments, with the Diamond League final looming as her primary target. Having dominated the series from 2021 to 2023 before missing out on the top spot last year, Amusan is determined to reclaim her throne and add a fourth title to her collection.
Her victory in Paris sends a clear message to her rivals, including Russell, who currently holds the world-leading time. Amusan’s consistency across multiple meets suggests she is building momentum at precisely the right stage of the season, setting up what promises to be a thrilling battle for Diamond League supremacy.
With her trademark blend of technical excellence and mental resilience, Amusan appears well-positioned to challenge for the title once again. Her ability to remain unfazed by pressure, combined with her outstanding physical condition—she emphasized her relief at being injury-free—makes her a formidable contender as the season progresses.
For Nigerian athletics fans, Amusan’s continued success provides a bright spot on the international stage, with the world record holder proving that she remains at the very top of her sport, even as competitors around her push the boundaries of performance.
