By daniel Edu
Chioma Ajunwa, Nigeria’s inaugural Olympic gold medalist, has urged athletes representing the nation in global events, like the ongoing World Athletics Championships, to maintain a high level of professionalism. Ajunwa, a former track and field athlete and football player, emphasized this point following Tobi Amusan’s inability to defend her title at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary.
Jamaica’s Danielle Williams secured the title with a season-best time of 12.43 seconds, followed by Puerto Rico’s Jasmine Camacho-Quinn in 12.44 seconds, and the U.S.’s Kendra Harrison in 12.46 seconds. However, Amusan, the reigning World champion, came in 6th with a time of 12.62 seconds in her third consecutive final.
During the 2022 World Championship in Eugene, USA, Amusan claimed first place with a time of 12.40 seconds, setting an African record. She later established a new world record of 12.12 seconds, surpassing the previous 12.20-second world record set by Kendra Harrison in 2016.
Ajunwa acknowledged the challenges Amusan faced, having been suspended for several months due to an Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV) related to three Whereabouts Failures within a 12-month period. Despite her clearance, Ajunwa stressed the need for heightened professionalism among athletes, particularly when dealing with international scrutiny.
A staunch advocate against drug abuse and banned substances, Ajunwa encouraged renowned athletes to use their influence to educate emerging talents about these issues. She noted that some athletes resist learning from campaigns against drug use, revealing a need for a change in mindset.
Drawing from her own experiences, Ajunwa advised athletes to be cautious about their surroundings, even to the extent of their own water bottles. She highlighted the presence of politics everywhere and the need to trust no one completely.
Ajunwa emphasized that top international athletes should always communicate their whereabouts to the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) to maintain transparency. She pointed out that while there might be resentment toward Nigerian athletes breaking records and setting new ones, the accomplishment serves as an inspiration for others to strive for excellence.
The World Athletics Championships commenced on August 19 and will conclude on August 27.
