Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, already regarded as the greatest women’s 400m hurdler in history, continues to redefine her legacy — this time in a brand-new event. The 25-year-old stormed to victory in the 400m at Eugene’s Hayward Field, clocking 48.90 seconds to seal her place at the upcoming World Championships.
From Hurdles to the Flat
A two-time Olympic champion and world record holder in the 400m hurdles, McLaughlin-Levrone shocked the track world earlier this year by announcing she would focus exclusively on the 400m flat. The decision, she revealed, was made shortly before the Prefontaine Classic in early July.
“Going into Pre, we had an idea we wanted to focus on the 400,” she said. “It’s not as comfortable for us, but I wanted to challenge myself. This is the year to step out of the box and push myself in a different way.”
Her commitment means she won’t attempt to qualify for the 400m hurdles at the Diamond League finals. “The 400m is a daunting task in itself,” she explained. “I respect the competitors and want to give my all to these races.”
A Historic Hurdles Career
McLaughlin-Levrone’s dominance over the hurdles is unmatched. She was the first woman to break the 52-second barrier in 2021, then smashed through the 51-second mark in 2022. At the Paris Olympics, she obliterated her own world record yet again. But this season isn’t about records — at least, not officially.
“Everyone talks about the American record,” she admitted. “It will come when it’s supposed to. This year has taught me patience. The 400m is new to me, and I’m learning every day how to figure it out.”
A Statement Win in Eugene
On Saturday, McLaughlin-Levrone made her intentions clear. She powered into an early lead over the first 200 meters and accelerated again in the home straight, leaving the field chasing shadows.
Final Results:
- Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone – 48.90 seconds
- Isabella Whittaker – 49.59 seconds
- Aaliyah Butler – 49.91 seconds
With this win, McLaughlin-Levrone not only secured her spot at the World Championships but also established herself as a legitimate medal contender in Tokyo.
Looking Ahead
While she’s not openly targeting the American record of 48.70 seconds set by Sanya Richards-Ross in 2006, McLaughlin-Levrone’s current form suggests it’s within reach. More importantly, she’s embracing the process of mastering a race that, in her own words, still feels “foreign.”
“This season is about being the best I can be each day,” she said. “It’s about taking on new challenges and figuring out a race that’s different from what I’ve dominated before.”
If her Eugene performance is anything to go by, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s 400m experiment could end with another golden chapter in an already historic career.