Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Resets 400m Hurdles Record... Again!
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone shattered her own 400-meter hurdles world record, blazing a 50.65-second trail at the U.S. Olympic trials in Eugene, Oregon, because five times apparently isn’t enough.
In her latest feat of athletic excellence, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone dominated the 400-meter hurdles at the U.S. Olympic trials, setting a new world record of 50.65 seconds—her fifth time breaking the world record at the same Hayward Field track. With a remarkable finish almost two seconds ahead of her nearest competitor, McLaughlin-Levrone continues to redefine what’s possible in the sport, leaving both fans and fellow athletes questioning if there’s anything she can’t do.
At just 23 years old, McLaughlin-Levrone has already become a legend in her own right. It's no surprise that she not only won her race but also reset her previous world record of 50.68 seconds. It's beginning to feel like home turf advantage for her—and for anyone who doubted, the track at Hayward Field clearly holds no secrets from McLaughlin-Levrone.
"Honestly, I don’t know what I'm capable of anymore," said McLaughlin-Levrone, when asked about her continuous record-breaking spree. Her humility contrasts sharply with the sheer dominance she displays on the track, adding layers to her ever-growing mystique. Maybe she’ll even break the record for breaking records!
Anna Cockrell finished second in the race, while Jasmine Jones secured third place. The race also featured Dalilah Muhammad, who clocked in at sixth. Muhammad, the former Olympic gold and silver medalist, now has a front-row seat to witness the Sydney show, perhaps wondering what it takes to dethrone the queen of 400-meter hurdles.
An often-overlooked contributor to McLaughlin-Levrone’s success is her coach, Bobby Kersee. Kersee implemented a daring change to her technique by dropping her to 14 strides between the early hurdles, a risky move that has evidently paid off. While most would struggle to maintain composure, McLaughlin-Levrone seems to thrive on the track, thanks largely to this strategic alteration. It's safe to say that Kersee's coaching moves don't just hit the mark—they clear the hurdles!
The U.S. Olympic trials were a display of fireworks not just for McLaughlin-Levrone but for the men’s 400-meter hurdles as well. Rai Benjamin set a trials record of 46.46 seconds, aiming to upgrade his Tokyo silver medal at the upcoming Olympics. Suffice to say, the trials were nothing short of a high-octane hurdle fest.
McLaughlin-Levrone's versatility isn't limited to the hurdles. In May, she set the seventh fastest 200-meter time of the season, showcasing her prowess in multiple events. This versatility could make her a valuable asset in a myriad of competitions. Just for good measure, she ran the first leg of the relay at the Tokyo Games, aiding the American team in clinching gold.
What’s next for an athlete who seems to break records more often than most people change their running shoes? McLaughlin-Levrone might be included in the 4x400 meter relay team. With her current form, any team would gladly welcome her. A potential double Olympic gold is well within reach.
McLaughlin-Levrone now holds seven of the 10 fastest times in the 400-meter hurdles, cementing her place in the annals of track and field history. Statistically, she's not just competing against her contemporaries; she’s racing against herself at this point. And the only person who can break Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s records appears to be Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone.
As the dust settles at Hayward Field, all eyes will inevitably turn towards the upcoming Olympics. Fans and pundits alike are eager to see if she can extend this remarkable run on the grandest stage of all. One thing is certain: whatever happens, it’ll be Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone setting the pace, and everybody else trying to catch up.