AMUSAN: MICHAEL JOHNSON REACTS TO PUBLIC BACKLASH AFTER HIS COMMENT ON AMUSAN'S TIME

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Track legend, Michael Johnson, has reacted to the accusations of racism he received on social media after questioning Tobi Amusan’s world record time in the 100-meter hurdles final at the just-concluded World Athletics Championships in Oregon.

Amusan beat 2016 world record holder Kendra Harrison by 0.08 seconds in the 100-meter hurdle semi-finals, finishing in 12.12 seconds.

Johnson took exception to the times recorded in the stadium, in which 12 athletes of 24 in the semi-finals recorded their best ever times.

The 54-year-old took to Twitter after seeing how many athletes looked shocked at their own times. The legendary track athlete won eight World Championship gold medals and four Olympic gold medals throughout his illustrious career.

“I don’t believe 100h times are correct. World record broken by .08! 12 PBs (personal bests) set. 5 National records set. And Cindy Sember quote after her PB/NR (national record) ‘I thought I was running slow!’ All athletes looked shocked [sic],” he wrote.

“Heat 2 we were first shown winning time of 12.53. Few seconds later it shows 12.43. Rounding down by .01 is normal. .10 is not.”

However, he quickly faced backlash from Nigerians on Twitter.

@aisha_okay wrote, “Let’s all just start reporting his account so maybe he will lose his freedom to post any of this rubbish again.”

Mide Samuel also said he likened Johnson’s comment to that of a comedian. He wrote, “Johnson sounds like a comedian. Can I ask a friend? Congratulations Tobi Amusan. Michael Johnson is a m** man.”

@AkinwandeSavage also faulted the American legend for being envious of Amusan’s feat. “@MJGold if there is a word called ‘hatist’ that is what you are, you are not happy for her success and I wonder how you became successful. Shame on you, Michael Johnson! Amusan is the best.”

Johnson took to his Twitter page once more to react to the insults and accusations he got. He wrote, “The level of dumbassery coming across my feed right now is truly staggering!

“As a commentator my job is to comment. In questioning the times of 28 athletes (not 1 athlete) by wondering if the timing system malfunctioned.

“I was attacked, accused of racism, and of questioning the talent of an athlete I respect and predicted to win. Unacceptable. I move on.”