There is still a slim chance for world record holder Tobi Amusan to compete in the women’s 100m hurdles final at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This depends on any of the eight finalists opting out of the race due to injury or other reasons, as reported by NewsNow.
Amusan narrowly missed securing a spot in the final after finishing third in the first semi-final with a time of 12:55s. She missed the opportunity to automatically qualify for the race and her hopes to qualify as one of the fastest non-automatic qualifiers were dashed when France’s Cyrena Samba-Mayela clocked 12:52s to claim the last spot.
Despite observations that Samba-Mayela had stepped outside her lane during the race, which led to calls from Nigerians for her disqualification, the rule only applies in races with curves like the 200m and relays.
According to Athens 2004 Olympic Games bronze medallist Deji Aliu, “Disqualifications do not occur in straight races unless there is an infringement, like impeding other athletes.” Athletics coach and statistician Lekan Soetan added, “Disqualification applies only if she impedes another athlete.”
Aliu and Soetan highlighted that Amusan may have a chance if any finalist withdraws before the final on Saturday. “If there is a withdrawal before the final, there is a possibility for Tobi to compete,” noted Aliu.
Soetan explained, “If one of the eight finalists pulls out due to injury, Tobi is the next in line to compete.” He added, “Hope remains until the start list is finalized or until just before the race begins.”
Amusan, aged 27, concluded Team Nigeria’s participation in athletics amidst disappointment, following the disqualification of the men’s 4x400m relay team for running on the lines. The quartet of Emmanuel Ojeli, Ezekiel Nathaniel, Dubem Amene, and Chidi Okezie had finished second in the heat with a season’s best time of 2:59:81.