Track star Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is no stranger to difficulties in her career, whether it be riddled with injuries or missing out on medals. The American stated that despite going through these challenges, it has helped her become a better athlete overall. This season, she made an effort to challenge herself by competing in the 400m flat instead of her usual 400m hurdles, winning a gold medal in the event at the World Athletics Championships.
What Message Did Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Send About Facing Challenges In Her Career?
McLaughlin-Levrone became the second-fastest woman to ever compete in the 400m flat this year, recording a time of 47.78 seconds at the Worlds. She also won gold as part of the US 4x400m Relay Team in Tokyo, adding a 6th World Championship medal to her impressive resume.
In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, McLaughlin-Levrone said, “There are definitely moments that are harder than others. Injuries, losses, or just the monotony of running around the oval every day. But those challenges are what make you a better athlete. I’ve learned to be comfortable being uncomfortable. Pushing through what looks like a very challenging situation is often how we get the most growth out of ourselves.”
Now one of the most decorated track and field athletes in US History, McLaughlin-Levrone’s attempts to push herself outside of her comfort zone have clearly proved fruitful. In the conversation, she also added that she is always looking for the next goal to chase, whether it be winning medals or breaking another world record.
McLaughlin-Levrone Outlines What She Wants To Achieve Next In Track And Field
At just 26, McLaughlin-Levrone’s trophy case is already overflowing. She owns the 400m hurdles world record at 50.37 seconds, a mark she has shattered six times. Yet, her quest for greatness is far from over.
The American revealed that there’s still ‘lots to do’, including claiming another world record, according to Olympics.com: “I’d like to run 49 seconds in the 400-metre hurdles and set my sights on the world record in the 400m dash. The time will come to make decisions, but there’s certainly a lot of work to do.”
McLaughlin-Levrone nearly broke the 400m world record set by East Germany’s Marita Koch in 1985, a time of 47.60 seconds. Koch also held the 200m record for quite some time, until it was broken by Florence Griffith-Joyner with a time of 21.34 seconds in 1988. Given Mclaughlin-Levrone’s capacity to compete in multiple events, one could see her try and break the 200m record soon as well.