Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone: Back on Top Form in 400 Meters Hurdles Ahead of Paris Games

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is preparing for the Paris Games with a world-leading time of 52.70 seconds in her first 400 meters hurdles race in over a year. The 24-year-old, who holds the world record in the event, last competed in August 2022 and proved she is back on top form at the Edwin Moses Classic in Atlanta by surpassing the previous season-leading mark of Jamaican Rushell Clayton by over a second.

After the race, McLaughlin-Levrone acknowledged that she still needs to work on shaking off the rust after two years. She expressed satisfaction with her performance but also recognized that there are areas for improvement, especially since she hasn’t had much hurdle practice. Despite missing last year’s World Championships due to a knee injury, McLaughlin-Levrone has been focused on competing in the United States leading up to the U.S. Olympic Team Trials later this month.

McLaughlin-Levrone has chosen to stay in the United States this year to prioritize her recovery and safety, even though she enjoys racing in Europe. She explained that travel can take a toll on the body, and she is being cautious until she reaches the trials. While McLaughlin-Levrone wants to get more races under her belt, she is taking a strategic approach to ensure she is in the best shape possible for the upcoming competitions.