Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone has opened up about the mindset that continues to drive her extraordinary success on the track. Following a dominant 2025 season that culminated in a World Championships victory in Tokyo, the Olympic champion revealed that her performances are fuelled by a deep sense of faith and a fear of falling short of her potential.
The 25-year-old American made a daring choice this year to step away from her trademark 400m hurdles event — where she holds multiple world records — and instead take on the flat 400m. This move was not only a strategic challenge but also a personal test designed to push her beyond her comfort zone.
McLaughlin-Levrone admitted that every race represents an internal battle against doubt and fear. “I’m afraid of not giving my best,” she reflected. “I don’t want to look back one day and regret not giving everything I had. I want to leave the track knowing I poured my heart into every step.” That philosophy, she says, defines how she approaches her career and life — with relentless commitment and no room for complacency.
Her bold switch to the flat 400m came with new tests, yet she rose to the challenge spectacularly. During the World Championships, she stunned herself with a blazing semi-final run that was both unexpected and exhilarating. “I was honestly shocked. I crossed the line thinking, ‘Oh no, I ran too fast!’ But the next day, I felt so strong and relaxed that it gave me confidence heading into the final,” she said. That renewed belief propelled her to the gold medal, reaffirming her place among the greatest sprinters of her generation.
For McLaughlin-Levrone, success is not just about titles or records but about faith, discipline, and self-discovery. Each season is a new opportunity to explore what she is truly capable of, and every race becomes a reflection of her spiritual and physical growth. As she continues to evolve as an athlete, her journey stands as a reminder that greatness often comes from confronting one’s fears — and trusting the process every step of the way.
