Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Wins 400m World Title with Second-Fastest Time in History
American sprinter Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone clinched the women's 400m gold at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, recording a championship record time of 47.78 seconds, the second-fastest ever.
American sprinter Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone secured the women's 400-meter gold medal at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, finishing in 47.78 seconds. This time sets a new championship record and ranks as the second-fastest in history, trailing only Marita Koch's 1985 world record of 47.60 seconds.
McLaughlin-Levrone's performance also makes her the first athlete to win world titles in both the 400-meter and 400-meter hurdles events. She previously set multiple world records in the 400-meter hurdles and holds two Olympic gold medals in that discipline.
The silver medal went to Marileidy Paulino of the Dominican Republic, who finished in 47.98 seconds, setting a national record and recording the third-fastest time in history. Bahrain's Salwa Eid Naser claimed bronze with a time of 48.19 seconds.
McLaughlin-Levrone's victory is particularly notable as it marks her first global championship appearance in the flat 400 meters, having previously focused on the hurdles. Her transition to the flat 400 meters this season was driven by a desire for new challenges after an undefeated streak in the 400-meter hurdles since 2019.
Reflecting on her achievement, McLaughlin-Levrone expressed gratitude and a sense of disbelief, acknowledging the hard work and belief in her coach, Bobby Kersee.
Looking ahead, McLaughlin-Levrone has not announced specific plans for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics but has previously considered competing in both the 400-meter and 400-meter hurdles events at future global championships.