Contemplates double Olympic 400m victory following suppression of skepticism by McLaughlin-Levrone
In a thrilling display of athletic prowess, American Olympian Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone claimed gold in the flat race at the Tokyo World Championships. Competing in steady rain at the National Stadium, McLaughlin-Levrone set a new championship record of 47.78 seconds, narrowly missing the world record set by Marita Koch in 1985.
McLaughlin-Levrone, the Olympic medalist who won the 400m freestyle at the 2021 World Championships in Tokyo, had previously gone unbeaten for six seasons in the 400m hurdles. However, her focus for this event was on the flat race.
The Olympic champion made a powerful start and put herself in front heading into the final straight. Brazil's Vitoria Cristina Rosa and the defending champion Marileidy Paulino of the Dominican Republic were hot on her heels, but McLaughlin-Levrone's determination and speed propelled her over the line first.
Paulino briefly threatened from the outside lane, but McLaughlin-Levrone's quick reaction and agility allowed her to fend off the challenge. The American athlete's victory marked a significant moment, as she answered her critics who had questioned her decision to step away from the 400m hurdles.
McLaughlin-Levrone's coach had advised her to get out of the blocks as fast as possible and not to stay in it for long. The athlete followed this advice, maintaining her composure even when she knew the other runners would push her. After crossing the finish line, McLaughlin-Levrone took a moment to compose herself before returning to the track to celebrate with her husband Andre.
The American athlete, who is also a world record holder and two-time Olympic gold medallist in the 400m hurdles, may also compete in this event at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. McLaughlin-Levrone has also expressed her intention to compete in the 400m event at the same games.
The source of this information is © 2025 AFP.
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