Tobi Amusan, competing at the ongoing World Athletics Championships in Budapest, had a confrontation with a European journalist in the mixed zone following the women’s 100-meter hurdle heats.
Amusan, who was previously provisionally suspended for missing three drug tests within a year but was subsequently cleared, commenced her title defense with a standard 12.49-second run, securing victory in Heat 5 on Tuesday.
After her race, Amusan engaged with the media in the mixed zone, until a European journalist brought up the previously vacated charges against her by the Athletics Integrity Unit.
Responding to the journalist’s question, Amusan redirected the conversation. “I’m talking about my fans, and you’re talking about charges. What charges?” she questioned.
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When the journalist repeated his query about her feelings toward the previously raised charges, Amusan leaned forward to read his identification badge and retorted, “Mr. Cathal, I am not going to answer your question. You’ve asked the same question five times now and I am not answering it.”
Budapest 2023: ‘Angry’ Tobi Amusan clashes with Irish journalist over doping questions. #JoySports pic.twitter.com/vSZsdgeKo2
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With a candid tone, Amusan expressed her frustration, stating, “You run fast, they want to talk about my shoes, you don’t run fast, they want to talk about what’s going on. Common, cut me some slacks,” she added.