Masai Russell set the American record in the 100mH at the Miami Grand Slam Track, but she is far from done.
Masai Russell may have just etched her name into the record books with a blistering American record in the 100m hurdles at the Miami Grand Slam Track last weekend, but the rising star insists she’s still figuring things out in her second year as a professional.
Russell set the American record in the 100 meters women’s hurdles at 12.17 wind-legal, also making it the second fastest time in the history of the event.
Speaking to the media, Russell explained how the pressure of being expected to deliver despite still being new to the professional scene after a year that saw her defy the odds to win the Olympics is helping her continue to set the standards.
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“I mean, I was a rookie — and I still am,” Russell said candidly. “I always say I’m a rookie and a vet. This is my second year as a pro, and I’ve done great things, things that not many rookies do. So of course the expectation is much greater. But for me personally, I’m still finding my ‘why’ when I compete.”
Her performance in Miami — where she shattered the U.S. record — was a statement, but Russell explained that adapting to the professional circuit has come with its own learning curve. “I’m so used to the college circuit.
There’s indoor championships, outdoor championships — multiple times a year, you’re looking forward to something,” she said.
“So last year, I was running and asking myself, ‘What am I running for?’ But when I got to the [U.S.] trials, it was like, ‘Alright, I know the goal now.’”
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That shift in mindset has fueled her growth, and Russell says she’s now learning how to show up, perform, and move on — a key adjustment in the pro ranks.
“As a professional, I’m learning to just show up, run fast, and then go home. It’s different than last year, but I’m happy where I’m at.”
Russell Targets Philly Grand Slam After Break: “I’m Building Momentum”
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Following her record-setting run, Russell is now taking a short break from competition, with her next meet now expected to be the third Grand Slam Track event in Philadelphia on May 30.
“I’m actually not doing any more races until Philly. I’m chilling for a minute, loading back up in training,” she revealed. “We’re just going to build that momentum into the next Grand Slam.”
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Russell also acknowledged how much the stakes have changed. In meets like the Grand Slam, the level of competition and financial incentives create a championship-like atmosphere.
“These meets feel like championships,” she said. “The amount of prize money that’s on the line — it makes you want to show up.
“ These women don’t make it easy to be lackadaisical on any given day. So for me personally, I’m starting to get more into the groove of the professional circuit.”
With her confidence rising and her purpose sharpening, Masai Russell is no longer just a promising name in hurdles — she’s setting the pace for what could be a dominant stretch ahead.