"I didn’t even recognize myself anymore"- Masai Russell opens up on her struggles as she wins major track award after Olympic gold medal

Masai Russell recently opened up on her struggles upon winning a major track award after the Paris Olympics. The 24-year-old hurdler was awarded the USATF Breakthrough Performer of the Year Award 2024 [Female].

Russell uploaded a couple of photographs from the award ceremony on her Instagram handle. She also wrote in the post,

"2024 Breakthrough Preformer of the Year ❤️

I am so humbled and honored to receive this award. From the start of this year, I felt lost and confused, with little direction regarding what was happening in my life. I was tested, I doubted myself & my abilities, and I reached a point where I didn’t even recognize myself anymore."

Russell also wrote why she didn't give up despite the odds stacked against her. She further added,

"I am here to tell you that there’s nothing you can’t do without faith and belief. Never say never. You will achieve what you work for and dreams do come true! I am a living testimony. Thank you all for the love & continuous support. I love you all!!!"

Masai Russell ended 2024 on a high note, with a surprise gold medal at the Paris Olympics. She also finished in third position in the inaugural edition of the female-only Athlos NYC meet 2024.

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Masai Russell's performances in the 2024 Olympic season

Masai Russell after winning the 100m hurdles finals at the Paris Olympics 2024 [Image Source : Getty]

Masai Russell wasn't the best bet for the Olympic gold medal in the 100m hurdles event at the Paris Olympics. However, the NCAA 100m record holder had other plans.

Russell began her Olympic season on a decent note by finishing fourth in the 60m dash at the World Indoor Championships. However, she made everyone take notice at the US Olympic trials for the track and field, held in Eugene, Oregon. In the 100m hurdles event, Russell topped the finals with an astounding time of 12.25 seconds.

Not only was this timing a world-leading time, but it also seemingly broke the Olympic record of the defending Olympic champion, Jasmine Camacho-Quinn, who recorded 12.26 seconds at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.

Russell maintained consistency at the Paris Olympics, qualifying for the finals with a time of 12.42 seconds. The journey to the Olympic gold medal wasn't going to be a cakewalk for her. However, she shocked everyone, as she edged out Camacho-Quinn for the gold medal in an intense race, with a timing of 12.33 seconds.

Russell further participated in the Diamond League, though her performance wasn't enough to secure her a berth for the finals. She also participated at the Athlos NYC, where she finished third overall.