Olympic champion Noah Lyles sent a powerful message to American track and field sprinter and hurdler Masai Russell after her stunning performance at the Grand Slam Track meet in Miami. Russell shattered the American record in the women’s 100m hurdles, clocking 12.17 seconds. It is the second-fastest time in world history and just 0.05 off the world record.
Lyles, himself a record-holder and one of track’s most vocal athletes, took to social media with a succinct four-word salute: “Welcome to the club.” His gesture underscored Russell’s achievement and the camaraderie among America`s elite athletes.
Russell’s run edged out Tia Jones, who finished in 12.19 seconds, equaling a previous record held by Keni Harrison since 2016. The race, held in ideal conditions with a legal tailwind, instantly became one of the fastest in history. Russell, 24, appeared stunned as she saw her time flash on the scoreboard, later admitting she was “in shock” and crediting the fierce competition for pushing her to new heights.
Moreover, Noah Lyles’ public recognition of Russell drew a picture of growing support among U.S track stars, as the Grand Slam Track League gains momentum. While Noah Lyles did not compete in the event, his message celebrated Russell’s arrival among the nation’s all-time greats and amplified the excitement surrounding American track and field’s new era.
Who is Masai Russell?
Masai Russell is an American track and field athlete specialising in the 100-meter hurdles, 400-meter hurdles, and 60-meter hurdles.
Born on June 17, 2000, in Washington, D.C., she competed for the Kentucky Wildcats in college and is coached by Lonnie Greene. Russell won gold in the 100m hurdles at the 2024 Paris Olympics and holds the American record at 12.17 seconds, the second-fastest time ever. She acquired it at the just-concluded Grand Slam Track, Miami second leg.
She is also the U.S. NCAA record holder in the 100m hurdles.
