The stage was set in Birmingham, England, Dina Asher-Smith?s home ground. Up against Jamaica?s Shericka Jackson and USA?s Gabby Smith, the match at the Alexander Stadium was a nail biter. Dina Asher-Smith came out on top, upsetting the two front runners for the title.

Asher-Smith edged out Shericka Jackson, winning the women?s 100m at the Birmingham Diamond League. Asher-Smith clocked in at 11.11, barely holding Jackson at bay who crossed the finish line in 11.12 seconds with a 0.1 m/s headwind. However, Gabby Thomas, who won the B-race barely an hour ago, came in fifth with a time of 11.31 seconds.?

Asher-Smith’s decisive win

Right off the bat, Asher-Smith had a strong start, gaining almost a meter ahead of Jackson. But eventually, Jackson caught up with Asher-Smith and would have perhaps overtaken her in just a couple more meters. Fortunately for the reigning 200m World Champion, the race ended, and she won by a 0.01 second margin. Daryll Neita came in third with 11.14 on the clock. It was a close match for the podium, but Asher-Smith proved her worth.

Surprisingly, Gabby Thomas, who bagged the 200m title in Doha just a week ago, faded into fifth. After a disappointing performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics for Asher-Smith, perhaps 2022 will turn a new corner for her.

READ MORE: Gabby Thomas Matches Allyson Felix?s Meet Record to Win the 200M at Doha Diamond League

Elaine Thompson-Herah pulled out of the meet earlier this week, experiencing discomfort during practice.

What?s next for Dina Asher-Smith?

In the press conference held just yesterday, Asher-Smith announced her plans for this season in very clear terms. With medals in 5 events to defend, The sprinter is eager to prove how much she has grown during the pandemic.

?I?m confident in the work that I?ve done. Just how much of a different person, different athlete I am since 2019 ? it?s light years away. When I peak, which is championship time, it will be amazing to lay down some really good times,? she said.

She announced, at the same conference that she will be at the Prefontaine next week. Later in the season, at the World Athletics Championships, scheduled in Eugene, Oregon this year, Asher-Smith will be looking to defend her 200m title from 2019. She is also expected at the European Championships in Munich, Germany this year and the Commonwealth Games back here in Birmingham.

Will we be able to see Asher-Smith break some records this season?

DIVE DEEPER: US Track Legend Michael Johnson Shares Thoughts on Gabby Thomas? Record-Breaking Run at Doha Diamond League