Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone could potentially be doubling in both the 400m flat and 400mH at the Tokyo World Athletics championships.
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, one of track and field’s most decorated athletes, is making headlines once again—not for her dominance in the 400-meter hurdles, but for her strategic pivot toward the 400-meter flat event at the upcoming USATF Outdoor Championships, scheduled from July 31 to August 3 at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.
The reigning Olympic champion and world record holder in the 400-meter hurdles (50.37) will not defend her specialty event at the U.S. Nationals.
Instead, the 25-year-old will compete exclusively in the flat 400 meters, signaling a calculated shift in both focus and long-term goals.
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Here are five key reasons behind McLaughlin-Levrone’s decision:
Overlapping Schedule at Nationals
5 Reasons Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Will Be Running the 400m Flat Event at the USATF World Athletics Trials
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone
One of the most immediate factors influencing the decision is a tight scheduling conflict. The women’s 400m final is set for 1:03 p.m. on Day 3 of Nationals, with the 400m hurdles semifinal slated just 16 minutes later at 1:19 p.m.
Even for McLaughlin-Levrone, attempting both races back-to-back is logistically and physically unfeasible. Opting for a single event allows for full focus and optimal performance.
Alternate Path to World Championships Qualification
5 Reasons Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Will Be Running the 400m Flat Event at the USATF World Athletics Trials
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone. Photo. Imago Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone.
Despite skipping the 400-meter hurdles at Nationals, McLaughlin-Levrone can still earn a spot at the 2025 World Championships in the event.
According to USATF qualifying rules, she can race in the Diamond League circuit, qualify for the final in Zurich, and secure her place by winning the Diamond League title. Given her dominance in the discipline, this route remains firmly within reach.
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Health and Long-Term Performance Strategy
McLaughlin-Levrone has long expressed interest in diversifying her portfolio on the track. In a 2022 interview, she shared her ambition to explore the 400-meter flat and “see what’s possible.” After setting a personal best of 48.74 seconds at the 2023 U.S. Nationals—making her the second-fastest American woman in history—her potential in the flat event is undeniable.
A knee injury forced McLaughlin-Levrone to withdraw from the 2023 World Championships, prompting a reassessment of her competition schedule.
The 400-meter flat, while grueling, eliminates the additional physical toll of hurdle clearance, potentially offering a safer and more sustainable option as she manages recovery and builds toward Paris 2025 and beyond.
Rising Domestic Competition
With her season-best of 49.43, McLaughlin-Levrone ranks as the sixth-fastest woman in the world this year.
However, young American stars like Aaliyah Butler and Isabella Whittaker have posted faster times in 2025, adding excitement and pressure to the 400m field. Competing against rising talent gives McLaughlin-Levrone the chance to sharpen her competitive edge in a new arena.
As she continues to evolve as an athlete, McLaughlin-Levrone’s shift to the 400-meter flat is not just a short-term adjustment—it’s a calculated move in pursuit of broader dominance and longevity on the track. All eyes will be on Hayward Field as she takes on a new challenge in Eugene.
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