Debate arises as US sprinter Rai Benjamin takes gold at world championships

Tokyo – Lybenjamin Wins 400m Hurdle at World Championships

In a thrilling race at the World Championships, Lybenjamin secured victory in the 400-meter hurdles with a time of 46.52 seconds on Friday. This win comes just a year after he claimed Olympic gold in Paris.

Brazil’s Allison dos Santos took home the silver medal, finishing in 46.84 seconds, while Abderaman Samba of Qatar earned bronze with a time of 47.06 seconds.

Yet, the night was anything but straightforward at Tokyo’s National Stadium, where Benjamin initially faced disqualification. Shortly after crossing the finish line first, he learned that he had been disqualified. He was waiting for an interview amidst a crowd of 58,643 when he asked Dos Santos about the situation. Dos Santos informed him, “I think it’s you.” And it was indeed.

Benjamin had been disqualified for knocking the final hurdle in an adjacent lane, impacting Nigerian runner Ezekiel Nathaniel.

“Anyone who runs the 400 hurdles knows the pain of lactic acid and fatigue. That’s why Hurdle 10 was tough for me. I did my best to keep my balance and finish,” Benjamin explained.

After an appeal, he was reinstated as the winner, proudly wearing a gold medal draped around his neck. A young fan even presented him with a golden paper crown, which he humorously wore for the moment.

In reflection, he noted, “What’s a world championship without a bit of drama? It adds to the story.”

Benjamin mentioned he fought to keep his emotions in check during the chaotic moments, grateful that the situation turned in his favor.

Dos Santos expressed support for Benjamin, stating, “He didn’t do anything wrong. That’s not how I want to win.”

Lybenjamin’s victory is particularly noteworthy as he follows in the footsteps of Karsten Warholm, the 2021 Olympic champion and three-time world champion, who had previously finished behind Benjamin in Tokyo four years ago.

Warholm, who placed fifth this time around with a time of 47.58 seconds, remarked, “It’s great to see him back.” He noted that he felt a twinge of tension in his leg during the race, which hindered his rhythm.