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British sprint sensation Dina Asher-Smith expressed strong views following her performance at the World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest this past Sunday. After a remarkable season highlighted by four gold medals at the European Championships and a silver in the 4x100m relay at Paris 2024, Asher-Smith faced stiff competition in the inaugural Ultimate Championship, competing in both the 100m and 200m events.
In the 100m, Asher-Smith finished eighth with a time of 11.09 seconds, while American sprinter Melissa Jefferson-Wooden took the win. The 24-year-old British athlete then achieved a season-best 22.10 seconds in the 200m, advancing to the final and ultimately placing fourth. Jefferson-Wooden once again triumphed, clocking an impressive 21.47 seconds-the fourth fastest women’s 200m time ever recorded.
After the race, Asher-Smith did not shy away from controversy, taking a subtle jab at actress Sydney Sweeney during a BBC interview. Sweeney, known for her role in the series Euphoria, has recently drawn criticism over a provocative advertising campaign she fronts as an equity partner in a US-based sports prediction app. Asher-Smith’s comments aligned with those of other athletes who have voiced disapproval of the campaign’s portrayal of women.
“That was incredible, to be part of such an incredible race,” Asher-Smith remarked. “Sydney Sweeney, this is what women in sport look like.
21.4 seconds. Muscles.
Hard work, sweat, blood, tears. This is a beautiful evening.”
Asher-Smith reflected on her performance and future aspirations: “That’s where I want to be-in those central lanes, really fighting for my life. With more years of training, I believe I can leverage my quick 100m personal best to be strong on the turns and finish powerfully down the home straight. I’m really proud of this performance.”
Beyond the track, Asher-Smith is known for her dedication both athletically and academically. She completed her studies in English Literature at Cambridge University between 2020 and 2023, balancing her elite training with rigorous academic demands. She remains a vocal advocate for empowering young female athletes, particularly encouraging their educational development alongside sporting ambitions.