When Anna Cockrell crossed the finish line at the 2024 Rome Diamond League, the clock stopped at an impressive 52.59 seconds, not just marking a personal triumph but also her first victory at a Diamond League event.
The Olympic silver medalist and American hurdler shone brightly on the track outpacing a strong field that notably lacked race favorites Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and Femke Bol.
Cockrell’s performance in the 400m hurdles was a vivid display of speed and technique.
Although the absence of McLaughlin-Levrone and Bol was felt, it did not diminish the shine of her achievement.
Cockrell managed to keep a clear lead against formidable competitors showcasing her readiness to ascend to the top of her sport.
“This is my first Diamond League win, so it is pretty exciting! My birthday was two days ago, so it is also a great birthday present. This has been a year of many breakthroughs for me,” Cockrell reflected after the race.
The 27-year-old hurdler’s strategy for the race was aggressive from the start, aiming to dominate the early hurdles, which she executed flawlessly through the first three.
“My first sub-53, sub-52, now this. It mostly came from me deciding to be more aggressive in my races. Today I planned to take it aggressively over hurdles one through three and I did. However, not all went perfectly.
“I was not happy about my hurdle 10, that should have been faster. I was initially a bit disappointed at the finish line, but then I thought ‘It is the second fastest time of my career, I will take it.’ I am staying in Europe for another couple of weeks, so you will be seeing me!,” she added.
The runner-up, Jamaica’s Shiann Salmon, finished in 53.20 seconds, also delivering a strong performance.
American Shamier Little was close behind, securing third place with a time of 54.15 seconds.
The absence of McLaughlin-Levrone and Bol, both dominant figures in the sport, was a subplot to the race.
McLaughlin-Levrone has been unbeaten since the 2019 World Championships, showcasing a blend of mental and physical prowess that has kept her at the forefront of the sport.
Meanwhile, Femke Bol, who excels in the European circuits continues to be a formidable competitor since her bronze at Tokyo 2020 and her dominance in youth competitions.
