Masai Russell Looks Past Old Defeat to Celebrate Record-Breaking Paris Olympics Qualification

Masai Russell shared a range of her emotional experiences, right after she made it to the United States squad for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The NCAA record holder clocked a 12.25s for the 110m hurdles and emerged victorious. The trials had six athletes who performed below 12.40. Russell broke the 12.33s U.S. trials record of 24 years set by Gail Devers. 

Masai Russell took to her X handle and summarized her emotions, “Had the WORST season of my life & im now a freaking Olympian.” She had her field days during the trials finals as she defeated champions like Nia Ali and Keni Harrison. Right after the victory, the champ tweeted, “I did it !!!!! Never an NCAA champ but an Olympic Trails Champs.”

Already an NCAA record holder, why did Russell have to roll out a statement like that? Let’s find out.

Best comeback ever since Russell lost the 100m hurdles title to Ackera Nugent

Masai Russell has had her share of challenges despite having a remarkable career. She broke the 60m hurdles best of Kendra Harrison, her senior, a mentor from the University of Kentucky. Later Ackera Nugent broke the same 60m record. This was the major setback for Russell. The level of talent she has and the expectations placed upon her never let her sit peacefully after the defeat.

However, the TikTok sensation knew how to turn her disappointments into motivations. She continued to compete and spent hours in training and that’s the reason why she is an Olympian today. 

Outside tracks and fields, Russell is known for her vibrant personality. Her followers on social media have wonderful interactions with her as she keeps sharing videos and posts about her race-day makeup or dance moves. She’s a tremendous person who’s got a lot to offer to her fans on and off track. 

More about Masai Russell’s collegiate career

Masai Russell went to the University of Kentucky where she had two world champions as her senior. Kendra Harrison, a silver medalist, and Jasmine Camacho-Quinn, a 100m hurdles specialist. They both were there at the University to provide her mentorship. “We call ourselves ‘Hurdle U,” Russell fondly said about her cheerleaders.

The 24-year-old mentioned with much pride that she is experienced enough now as she attended college for five years. She has been learning a lot under the guidance of her coach Lonnie Greene and claims that she has achieved tremendous growth. 

Before attending University, Masai Russell went to the Bullis School in Potomac, the town where she spent her childhood. Her collegiate career had marvellous performances like setting up a collegiate record for 100m hurdles. During the 2021 SEC Outdoor Championships, she secured the third position in the 400m hurdles. 

Russell has no regrets now for not winning an NCAA championship as she has her eyes all set on the 2024 Paris Olympics, after delivering a wonderful performance during the Olympics trials.