Masai Russell sets new 100m hurdles world record

American track and field athlete Masai Russell completed a dominant 2026 season, winning 14 consecutive races. During the Diamond League meeting in Zurich, the 26-year-old Olympic champion set a new world record in the 100m hurdles with a time of 12.09 seconds, surpassing the previous mark held by Tobi Amusan.

In addition to her world record, Russell won the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championships with a time of 12.22 seconds. Her performance this year included nine separate instances of running under 12.3 seconds. Following her unbeaten season, Russell has been nominated for the 2026 Women’s World Athlete of the Year award.