Masai Russell has made waves in the track and field world with her remarkable performance at the Miami Grand Slam Track event, where she set the American record in the 100-meter hurdles with a wind-legal time of 12.17 seconds. This achievement not only etched her name in the history books but also made her the second-fastest woman to ever run the event. Despite this incredible milestone, Russell is still in the process of finding her place in the professional track scene, as she embarks on her second year as a professional athlete.
Reflecting on her journey, Russell admits that she is still learning and adapting to the demands of being a professional hurdler. “I always say I’m a rookie and a vet,” she said, acknowledging the high expectations that come with her success. “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 candidness about her rookie status reveals the ongoing process of growth she is undergoing as an athlete. In many ways, her record-setting run in Miami was a statement, not only of her ability but also of her drive to push past the limits she sets for herself. However, she noted that the shift from the collegiate circuit to professional competition brought its own set of challenges. “I’m so used to the college circuit,” she explained. “There’s indoor championships, outdoor championships multiple times a year, you’re looking forward to something.” The transition from that structure to the professional circuit, where competitions are spaced out and more deliberate in their preparation, required a mental shift.
Russell continued to reflect on her growth over the past year, particularly after her breakthrough performance at the U.S. Trials. “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,’” she said. That clarity in purpose has been instrumental in her development, helping her embrace her role as a professional athlete who must perform at the highest level, regardless of the context.
Now, with a clear sense of what is required to succeed in the pro circuit, Russell is focused on learning how to show up, perform, and move on. “As a professional, I’m learning to just show up, run fast, and then go home,” she said. This mindset, she acknowledges, is a shift from her collegiate days when there was always another championship or race to prepare for. Now, the focus is on consistent performance and pushing herself to new heights, without the distractions of multiple events.
After her record-breaking performance, Russell is taking a short break from competition to focus on training and recovery. Her next major meet will 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. This brief pause will allow her to build momentum as she continues to fine-tune her approach to competition.
Russell has also acknowledged the growing stakes of the professional circuit. Meets like the Grand Slam, with their high level of competition and substantial prize money, have created 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.” She also recognizes the intensity of competition, where every athlete is at the top of their game, making it impossible to take a lackadaisical approach.
As she looks to the future, Masai Russell is no longer just a promising young athlete but a force to be reckoned with in the world of hurdles. With her growing confidence and sharpened sense of purpose, she is poised to set new records and carve out a dominant career in the years to come. The journey ahead may still be unfolding, but one thing is certain Russell is ready for whatever comes next.
