SAINT-DENIS, France — After a breathtaking finish in the 400-meter hurdles at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone reaffirmed her dominance in the event, breaking her own world record and winning another gold medal. McLaughlin-Levrone sprinted across the finish line in an astonishing 50.37 seconds, shaving 0.28 seconds off her previous world record set earlier this year.
As McLaughlin-Levrone celebrated her historic victory by donning the American flag and a tiara, the world of athletics also witnessed another monumental moment—Sha’Carri Richardson being officially crowned the 2024 World Champion. Richardson’s long-awaited triumph on the global stage came after years of highs and lows, and her victory electrified fans across the globe.
In the 400-meter hurdles, McLaughlin-Levrone outpaced the competition by a full 1.5 seconds, setting an Olympic record (her own from Tokyo) and leaving her competitors far behind. American Anna Cockrell claimed the silver with a personal best of 51.87 seconds, while Dutch star Femke Bol earned bronze, repeating her podium finish from the Tokyo Games.
Speaking after her remarkable win, McLaughlin-Levrone reflected on her performance: “Overall, it was a pretty good race. There are a few things I could have cleaned up, but in the moment, you’re not thinking about that.” She expressed her desire for an even faster time, showing her relentless pursuit of excellence.
McLaughlin-Levrone’s dominance on the track and Sha’Carri Richardson’s return to form as a world champion further solidify their places as icons of American track and field. Both athletes have inspired countless young women with their resilience and unwavering drive to succeed, making history together on the Olympic stage in 2024.
