It initially appeared that the Americans had swept the medals, but film review showed that Don Finlay had come in third over Jack Keller; this gave Great Britain its first medal in the event since 1896.

Percy Beard and Jack Keller of the United States and Bengt Sjöstedt of Finland each had tied the world record before the Games.

The United States made its ninth appearance, the only nation to have competed in the 110 metres hurdles in each Games to that point.

Jack Keller broke the Olympic record in the first semifinal, setting a new time at 14.5 seconds.

Four heats were held; the fastest three runners advanced to the semifinal round.