Renowned hurdle champion Tobi Amusan made headlines at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary, when she confronted an Irish journalist for raising questions about charges against her following the women’s 100-metre hurdle heats.
Before the competition, Amusan had faced a provisional suspension due to missing three drug tests, but she was eventually cleared to compete. She displayed her prowess by triumphing in Heat 5 with an impressive time of 12.49s, successfully defending her title.
After her race, Amusan engaged with the media at the mixed zone. While expressing gratitude to her fans for their unwavering support, an Irish journalist, Cathal Dennehy, inquired about the charges. Dennehy asked, "Tobi, just on the point of the fans, I guess some of them are wondering what led to the charge. Would you be able to clarify the reasons behind that?"
Amusan responded with evident frustration, retorting, "I'm talking about my fans, and you're talking about charges. What charges?"
She addressed the journalist, "Mr. Cathal, I will not answer your question. You've asked the same question five times, and I am not answering it. Ridiculous."
Amusan expressed her exasperation with the persistent focus on non-athletic matters, stating, "You run fast, they want to talk about my shoes; you don't run fast, they want to talk about what's happening. Come on, cut me some slack."
This exchange showcased Amusan's determination to keep the spotlight on her athletic achievements and dedication rather than diverting it to external controversies.
