Track fans in Memphis were looking forward to watching one of the sport’s brightest stars take the stage this weekend—but unfortunately, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone had to pull out of the Ed Murphey Classic at the last minute due to a high fever.
The Olympic champion and world record holder was set to compete on Saturday, July 12, at the University of Memphis, but illness kept her from making the trip. It’s a tough break, especially with the 2025 Toyota USATF Outdoor & Para National Championships just around the corner. That meet, which runs from July 31 to August 3, will decide who represents the U.S. at the World Championships in Tokyo later this year.
“I’m disappointed to have to withdraw from the Ed Murphey Classic,” McLaughlin-Levrone shared in a heartfelt statement. “I was eager to get on the line, compete in front of the amazing Memphis fans, and make a real statement as we head toward the heart of the season. I’ve been training hard and was ready to go, which makes this all the more frustrating.”
She also thanked the meet organizers and fans for their continued support, adding, “Wishing all the athletes the best—I’ll be watching and cheering you on from home.”
Eddie Murphey Jr., president of the Ed Murphey Classic, expressed his understanding and support:
“We’re certainly disappointed Sydney won’t be able to compete—many of us were excited to see what she could do on this track. But her health comes first, and we’re behind her 100 percent. We hope she feels better soon and can get back to doing what she loves.”
Even without McLaughlin-Levrone, the event remains a high-energy celebration of the sport. More than 450 professional athletes, including over 65 Olympians from 45+ countries, are competing in this year’s edition. The meet runs from noon to 9:15 p.m., with the main program starting at 6:15 p.m. at the Billy J. Murphy Soccer and Track Complex.
Tickets are $15 and available at the gate or online at edmurpheyclassic.com. Proceeds go toward the Murphey Track Club, which helps young athletes in the community build confidence and healthy habits through track and field.
Sydney may be out this weekend, but the track is still buzzing with talent—and she’ll surely be watching, just like the rest of us.