Russell Overtakes Stark and Amusan, Climbs to No.1 in 100m Hurdles World Rankings

Reigning Olympic champion Masai Russell has surged to the top of the women’s 100m hurdles world rankings following back-to-back Diamond League victories in Shanghai and Xiamen.

The 25-year-old American, who turns 26 next month, clocked sensational times of 12.25 and 12.14 seconds to boost her ranking score to 1391.

Just eight days ago, Russell was ranked fourth, but her performances have propelled her past compatriot Grace Stark, who remains second with 1386 points.

Nigeria’s Tobi Amusan also improved her standing, moving from 1379 to 1385 after recording 12.41 and 12.28 in the same Diamond League meetings. She sits third in the global rankings.

Amusan however leads Russell 7-5 in their head to head clashes although the American has won their last two meetings.