Three-time world champion Gail Devers failed to qualify for the final of the 100 metres hurdles at the World Athletics Championships at the Stade de France in Paris on Tuesday.
The 36-year-old American, running in the first of three semifinals, finished third in the heat behind Canada's Perdita Felicien and Lacena Golding-Clarke of Jamaica. With only the first two qualifying, the American ace failed to make it.
After a not-to-good start, Devers hit the fourth hurdle and lost her rhythm thereafter. The twice 100 meters Olympic gold medallist could have made it as one of the two fastest losers, but the first four in the second semifinal -- Jamaica's Brigitte Foster, United States' Miesha McKelvy, Poland's Aureila Trywianska and Spain's Glory Alozie -- posted better timings than her.
For the first time in the history of the championships nine athletes will line-up for the final after two tied for second place in the third semifinal.
Vonette Dixon of Jamaica and Patricia Girard of France clocked 12.85 seconds.
The final is on Wednesday.
The line-up, in order of qualifying times, is:
Brigitte Foster JAM 12.45
Miesha McKelvy USA 12.51
Perdita Felicien CAN 12.67
Jenny Adams USA 12.67
Glory Alozie ESP 12.71 second
Lacena Golding-Clarke JAM 12.72
Vonette Dixon JAM 12.72
Aurelia Trywianska POL 12.73
Patrica Girard FRA 12.74
