Masai Russell reacts to getting featured on Times Square billboard after winning gold medal at Paris Olympics 2024

Masai Russell, the American Olympic champion hurdler, was ecstatic after being featured on the iconic Times Square billboard in New York City. Russell participated in the 100m hurdles final at the Paris Olympics 2024 on Saturday, August 10. She blazed over the Stade de France track to claim the maiden Olympic title of her career in a photo finish with a timing of 12.33 seconds. She defeated Cyréna Samba-Mayela of France and the defending champion Jasmine Camacho-Quinn of Puerto Rico, who took second and third spots on the podium after clocking 12.34 seconds and 12.36 seconds, respectively.

Notably, the Potomac-born athlete caught global attention at the 2024 US Olympic Trials, where she recorded a world-leading, and personal best, time of 12.25 seconds, which also happened to be the fourth fastest finish to a 100m hurdles race in the history of the event. She also broke three-time Olympic champion Gail Devers' US Olympic trials record, which had stood for 24 years.

Following her recent athletic success, the American prodigy was acknowledged for her achievements by being featured on New York City's renowned Times Square billboard. Russell's brother Philip shared a picture of the billboard on his Instagram story, which was later reposted by the sprinter. She expressed her happiness at the development, writing:

"No way I was in time square."

Masai Russell's Instagram Story (Instagram@masai_russell)

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"It felt like a distant dream" - Masai Russell reflects on becoming an Olympic champion

Masai Russell at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 - Source: Getty

Masai Russell shared she was in disbelief after winning the title at the Paris Olympics. She also talked about being uncertain about her chances of winning gold at the competition before the Games. In an Instagram post, the hurdler wrote:

"There was no indication that I would be an Olympic Champion in the 100 hurdles this year & tbh it felt like a distant dream that could never be reached. But here’s the truth…never let anyone sway you from what you believe about yourself."

She added:

"I got to a point where I was hyper-aware of everything, causing me to forget how to hurdle, practice & compete freely. I continued to show up for this version of myself, I knew was possible. I did it without making excuses and I took every L to the chin.

"I had to be lost, to be found. Focus on your path, stay committed, and believe in yourself. Records can be broken, but the accolades you earn are yours forever. Embrace the grind, for every step taken brings you closer to greatness."

Russell had revealed a night before the Paris Olympics finals that she could not sleep properly.