Tobi Amusan launched her campaign for a third African 100 metres hurdles title at the 2026 African Senior Athletics Championships in Accra, Ghana, with the event's heats scheduled for 5:30pm today at the University of Ghana. The world record holder, who has won five continental gold medals across individual and relay events, previously claimed the 100m hurdles title at Asaba 2018 and Mauritius 2022. She did not defend her individual crown in Douala 2024 due to personal reasons, opening the door for Liberia's Ebony Morrison to win in a championship record of 12.7 seconds. Amusan's compatriots Adaobi Tabugbo and Janet Sunday are also in the field. Tabugbo, who placed fifth in the 100m hurdles at Douala 2024 and won relay gold with Amusan, holds a personal best of 12.87 seconds. Sunday, making her first major international appearance, has a personal best of 13.67 seconds, set at the AFN Golden League in Benin in March 2026. The final of the women's 100m hurdles is set for 4:45pm on the second day of competition. Beyond Accra, Amusan is scheduled to begin her 2026 Diamond League season three days later in Shanghai. She will face a strong field including reigning world champion Ditaji Kambundji, Olympic champion Masai Russell, Jamaican world champion Danielle Williams, and Bahamian hurdler Devynne Charlton. Amusan's 12.12 seconds remains the fastest time in history in the event.
Amusan returns to the African Championships aiming for a third 100m hurdles title, yet skipped the individual event in Douala despite being favourite, allowing Morrison to claim the record. Her dominance at continental level is undisputed, but her absence in 2024 exposed a gap that others have already filled. Tabugbo's 12.87s makes her a credible challenger, though Amusan remains the overwhelming favourite. Sunday's 13.67s suggests she is still developing, and her presence highlights depth rather than immediate threat.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
