Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Slays 400m Hurdles, Breaks Own World & Olympic Records

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone set an Olympic record and broke her own World Record of 400m hurdle securing a gold medal in the Paris Olympics 2024 on August 8. The American hurdler and sprinter completed the hurdle in 50.37 seconds, bettering her record of 50.65 seconds set earlier at the US trials in Eugene, Oregon, in early July 2024. McLaughlin-Levrone has made history, setting four world records over the last 13 months, displaying an unbreakable spirit and consistency. The three-time Olympic gold medallist is also the only track athlete to break four world records in the same event.

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Breaks Record For The 6th Time

McLaughlin-Levrone won two gold medals in the Tokyo Games 2021 and the World Championship two years ago. This new feat at the US trials has added another feather to her cap. The 25-year-old was the first woman ever to break the 52-second barrier in June 2021 and the 51-second barrier in July 2022 in the 400m hurdle. 

Aside from McLaughlin-Levrone, only three other women track athletes have ever broken the 52-second barrier, and only one other has broken 51. The American holds six out of the ten fastest times on the world all-time list. She stunned reigning world champion Femke Bol of the Netherlands, who took the bronze at the Paris Olympics 2024.

Levrone's athletic background

McLaughlin-Levrone was born to athletic parents. Her father, Willie, is a semi-finalist in the 400m hurdle in the 1984 Olympics trial. Currently, he is a member of the Manhattan College Athletic Hall of Fame. Her mother was a 2:12 half-miller at Cardinal O'Hara High School.

McLaughlin-Levrone has three siblings - Taylor, Ryan and Morgan. Taylor too is an athlete who won a silver medal in the 400m hurdle in 2016's IAAF World T20 Championship. McLaughlin-Levrone married Andre Levrone Jr., a former NFL wide receiver in May 2022. He is currently working in real estate. 

Levrone's stint at the University of Kentucky

Levrone's spree of success began when she signed a National Letter of Intent to attend the University of Kentucky. She competed for their track and field program setting a world junior record of completing 400m hurdle in 50.36 seconds. This was achieved in the NCCA Division I Indoor Track and Field Championship in March 2018.

Moreover, she broke the collegiate record during her first stint at the SEC Championship in May 2018. She completed the 400m hurdle in 52.75. After being at Kentucky University for around one year, Levrone became a professional 400m hurdle. She left the University and signed a sponsorship with New Balance. Levrone's journey of success is a testimonial of following your passion with resilience and fortitude.