The women’s 100m hurdles are undergoing an exciting transformation as a new generation of athletes steps into the spotlight. Among the 100m hurdles all-time leaders, Tobi Amusan, Masai Russell, and Tia Jones have recently emerged as dominant forces.
Though many have only recently joined track and field, they are already rewriting the history books with record-breaking performances.
Tobi Amusan made headlines in 2022 by setting the world record with an electrifying 12.12 seconds at the World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon. As one of the 100m hurdles all-time leaders, Amusan’s explosive speed and flawless technique have set a new benchmark for the event.
Early in her career, she faced setbacks such as a false start disqualification, but she used those challenges to sharpen her focus and improve her race strategy, solidifying her place among the sport’s elite.
Tia Jones in a Past Event
On the other hand, Masai Russell and Tia Jones have quickly followed, posting impressive times of 12.17 and 12.19 seconds, respectively, in 2025. Both athletes have recently risen to prominence and are now considered among the 100m hurdles all-time leaders.
Russell’s powerful finishes and consistent performances have pushed the competitive level higher, while Jones’s smooth hurdle clearance and tactical pacing highlight her potential to become a future star.
Despite their relatively short time on the elite stage, both have overcome early challenges like race jitters and minor injuries.
100m Hurdles All-time Leaders:
| Athlete | Year | Event | Time (seconds) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tobi Amusan | 2022 | World Athletics Championships | 12.12 | Current world record holder |
| Masai Russell | 2025 | Grand Slam Track Meet | 12.17 | Broke the American record |
| Tia Jones | 2025 | National Championships | 12.19 | Rising star with smooth technique |
| Keni Harrison | 2016 | Prefontaine Classic | 12.20 | Former world record holder |
| Grace Stark | 2025 | National Invitational | 12.21 | Emerging talent with consistent times |
| Yordanka Donkova | 1988 | Seoul Olympics | 12.21 | Legendary hurdler with a long-standing record |
Early Challenges and Fierce Competition
Masai Russell
While Amusan, Russell, and Jones continue to rise, they compete alongside seasoned athletes like Kendra Harrison and Yordanka Donkova, who remain key figures among the 100m hurdles all-time leaders.
Harrison, a former world record holder, has battled injuries and tough losses, while Donkova’s performances in the 1980s set a high bar for the event.
The newcomers have faced their share of setbacks as well. Amusan’s early false start disqualification could have discouraged her, but she turned it into motivation. Russell has handled the pressure of rapid success, and Jones has managed injuries threatening to slow her progress.
These experiences highlight the mental toughness required to compete at the highest level and remain among the 100m hurdles all-time leaders.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Masai Russell, Tia Jones and the rest continue to develop and compete, they represent the vibrant future of the 100m hurdles. Their rapid rise and record-breaking performances signal a shift in the event, with fresh talent challenging established names and pushing the sport to new heights.
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Fans and experts eagerly await how these rising stars will shape the next chapter of the 100m hurdles all-time leaders.
