American track star Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone has shared her thoughts on her performance at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, as well as how close she came to breaking the world record in the Women’s 400m.
McLaughlin-Levrone won the 400m world title with a time of 47.78 seconds, which is the second-fastest time in the history of the event. The record is held by East Germany’s Marita Koch, who set a time of 47.60 seconds in 1985. McLaughlin-Levrone’s time was the fastest in the event in nearly 40 years.
What did Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone say about nearly breaking the 400m record?
McLaughlin-Levrone was asked in an interview with L’Équipe about whether she had time to think about almost breaking the Women’s 400m record at the World Athletic Championships:
“Yes. (She reflects.) I think it took me a while to process what happened. Time to reflect, to realize how close I was, to look back, and wonder what we could have done differently. But you know, I also have to appreciate the moment for what it was.
It was a 400m with two women under 48 seconds for the first time in history (with Dominican Olympic champion Marileidy Paulino in 47.98), which is crazy. And to take the risk of competing in a discipline that isn’t my own and be able to win is incredible.” – Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone
McLaughlin-Levrone was closely followed by Marileidy Paulino, who now holds the third-fastest time in the Women’s 400m.
McLaughlin-Levrone reflects on her impressive 2025 season
McLaughlin-Levrone took to Instagram to share a message about her 2025 season after the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. She wrote:
“This season was a test of faith beyond compare. To take the leap from comfort into the unknown required so much prayer and petitioning. Making the switch from the hurdles to the 400m flat was truly a God lead decision. I believe God called me back to this challenge after the injury that hindered my ‘23 season.
Not only to chase history but to further develop my character. This year I have become more determined, patient, and self disciplined and I’m so overwhelmingly grateful to see how it culminated here. I will never forget that rainy night in Tokyo!! 🫶🏽”
“Thank you to my family, my team, to the fans, and to my amazing church community for standing behind me. The best seasons in life often require the most dependence on God, and this was one of them. He is my good Shepherd!! 🐑 Thank you Jesus! God bless 🥹”
McLaughlin-Levrone now holds 5 World Championship gold medals to her name. She also won a gold medal as part of the US 4x400m Relay team in Tokyo.
