Kehinde Amusan, father to latest world record holder in the 100m women’s hurdles, Tobi Amusan, has reacted to comments by American track legend Michael Johnson on his daughter’s heroic win.
Recall Amusan romped to victory in 12.12secs in the semi-final of the women’s 100m hurdles to smash Kendra Harrison’s 2016 world record by 0.08secs, before cruising to Nigeria’s first ever World Championships gold in an amazing wind-assisted 12.06secs in the final.
But Johnson took exception to the times recorded in the stadium, in which 12 athletes – including Amusan – out of 24 semi-finalists recorded their best times ever.
The 54-year-old, who won four Olympic gold and eight World Championships gold in a stellar track career, took to Twitter after seeing how many athletes “looked shocked” at their own times.
“I don’t believe 100h times are correct. World record broken by .08! 12 PBs (personal bests) set. 5 National records set. And Cindy Sember quote after her PB/NR (national record) ‘I thought I was running slow!’ All athletes looked shocked (sic),” he wrote.
“Heat 2 we were first shown winning time of 12.53. Few seconds later it shows 12.43. Rounding down by .01 is normal. .10 is not.”
In a chat with The PUNCH, Amusan’s father stated that the American’s comments should be ignored.
“You know the western world and how they behave, you should know what they are,” Kehinde told The PUNCH.
“I feel unconcerned about what he said after the race because God has done what He needs to do. I don’t mind whatever anybody says about the timing, I feel that is how the western world is but they are not God.
“So, he is entitled to his opinion. I won’t take it as an offence because I just believe that’s what these blacks do.”
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