Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, the world-record holder in the 400-meter hurdles, has decided to focus solely on defending her title in that event at the upcoming Paris Olympics. She has withdrawn from the 200 and 400-meter flat races at the U.S. Olympic trials to concentrate on her primary event.
McLaughlin-Levrone expressed her commitment to the hurdles, stating that it is her 'first love.' Despite dabbling in the 400 flat race last year and achieving notable success, she has chosen to prioritize the hurdles for the upcoming Olympics.
Recently, McLaughlin-Levrone ran her first 400 hurdles race in nearly two years, clocking a time of 52.70, which met the Olympic standard. Known for her versatility, she has competed in various events this year, including the 100 and 400 hurdles, the 200 and 400 flat races, and the 4x100 relay.
Her coach, Bobby Kersee, has emphasized that the 400 hurdles are McLaughlin-Levrone's 'No. 1 event.' She first broke the world record in the 400 hurdles at the 2021 Olympic trials and has since lowered it three times, with her most recent record of 50.68 seconds set at the 2022 world championships.
McLaughlin-Levrone acknowledges the pressure of the upcoming trials but sees it as an opportunity to assess her fitness and performance ahead of the Paris Olympics. She is set to face tough competition, particularly from Femke Bol of the Netherlands, who claimed the world championship title in McLaughlin-Levrone's absence last year.
The first round of the 400 hurdles at the trials is scheduled for June 27, and McLaughlin-Levrone is focused on maintaining her strength and health as she prepares for the challenging competition ahead.
