France’s Sasha Zhoya stuns American Olympic silver medalist Daniel Roberts to clinch 110mH Diamond League title in Brussels

France’s Sasha Zhoya stuns American Olympic silver medalist Daniel Roberts to clinch 110mH Diamond League title in Brussels

Mark Kinyanjui 21:59 - 13.09.2024

Zhoya, who failed to reach the final at the Paris Olympic games last August, crossed the line first to end his season on a high.

France’s Sasha Zhoya took advantage of Grant Holloway’s absence from the line up to clinch the 110m Hurdle title at the Brussels Diamond League classic with a 13.16 run on Friday night.

Zhoya, who won the U20 title in the event back in 2021, crossed the line first ahead of Italy’s Lorenzo Ndele Simonelli, who finished second on 13.22, with Freddie Critennden of the USA finishing third on 13.24.

"It wasn't my best race, a bit difficult in the beginning, but the goal was to take the win this evening, so for that I'm happy," Zhoya admitted after the race. "I was aiming for a good time, but that will have to wait. I am already happy about winning my races and to perform well."

Olympic silver medallist Daniel Roberts, also from the USA, endured a disappointing evening, finishing eighth and bringing his season to an unsatisfactory close.

Reflecting on his season, Zhoya revealed his earlier struggles with injury but remained optimistic about his future. "At the beginning of the season, I suffered from an injury, so I was still trying to show what I am capable of. I'm doing really great in training, so I was hoping for a better time," he said.

Running without pain was a relief for the Frenchman, and he now sets his sights on a strong 2025. "For now, I run pain-free, and I hope to have an injury-free season next year. But for now, it's holidays and rest! I will take a little break, but afterwards, it's full focus on the next season."

With Zhoya's continued progress, the 110m hurdles scene promises to be even more thrilling next year as he seeks to challenge the top contenders on the global stage.

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