'God challenged every part of me'-Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone reflects on missing 2023 season and being unbeaten in Olympic year

'God challenged every part of me'-Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone reflects on missing 2023 season and being unbeaten in Olympic year

Festus Chuma 09:00 - 16.09.2024

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone reflects on her recovery from a 2023 injury and her unbeaten 2024 Olympic season success.

Four-time Olympic gold medallist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone wrapped up her remarkable 2024 season on a high note after securing double medals at the Brussels Diamond League Finals.

The 25-year-old American hurdler and sprinter delivered an emotional reflection on her journey back to the track following a season-ending knee injury that kept her out of the 2023 World Athletics Championships.

McLaughlin-Levrone, who had been one of the dominant figures in track and field, was forced to miss the 2023 season due to a knee injury that required months of recovery and rehabilitation.

Opting out of the 2024 Indoor season to focus on regaining full fitness, she made her much-anticipated return to competition at the USATF New York Grand Prix, setting the stage for her stellar Olympic year.

Reflecting on the struggles she faced during her time away from the sport, McLaughlin-Levrone opened up in a heartfelt Instagram post:

“After last year, having to sit out due to injury, the mental build back to the world stage felt like a mountain of a climb. Yet as I reflect on the year, I’m so thankful for the ways in which God challenged every part of me to rely solely upon Him in some of the most grueling moments.”

The Olympic champion acknowledged the unique challenges that athletes face, despite the perception that sports might be purely physical.

“Some may look and wonder what challenges there could be just ‘playing a sport,’ trust me they exist. Just like any profession, it takes dedication, preparation, perseverance, and belief," she added, highlighting the mental toll of overcoming setbacks.

McLaughlin-Levrone’s comeback was nothing short of spectacular. She announced her return with authority by dominating the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials, where she shattered the world record in the 400m hurdles.

The triumph continued at the Paris Olympics, where she successfully defended her gold in the 400m hurdles and anchored the U.S. women’s 4x400m relay team to another victory.

Throughout the year, McLaughlin-Levrone remained unbeaten, a testament to her resilience and dedication to her craft. As she concluded her season in Brussels, she expressed immense gratitude for the opportunities she had been given and the support from her team and fans.

"In it all, I will continue to do what I’ve always done, which is endeavor to improve. Use my platform to proclaim Christ, and redirect the glory back to God as much as I can," McLaughlin-Levrone shared, adding that she is now looking forward to rest and time with her loved ones.

Despite her flawless season, McLaughlin-Levrone is already thinking ahead. In a post-race interview at the Brussels Diamond League, she spoke about her plans for the 2025 season and her approach to racing in Europe, particularly in events like the Diamond League.

“I think if our schedule allows for it, I think we sit down strategically and assess what it is we're trying to accomplish and the best way to get there. So I think if some of these European meets make sense, fitting into that schedule, then absolutely. But the number one priority is always Trials and then the Championships,” McLaughlin-Levrone said, emphasizing the importance of major competitions.

Looking forward to the 2025 season, McLaughlin-Levrone is set to return to the track at Michael Johnson's Grand Slam Track event, an innovative meet aimed at reshaping the landscape of track and field.

The champion remains focused on her goals, but for now, she’s grateful for a season that proved her determination and faith could overcome any obstacle.

"I am forever grateful for this sport and the opportunities it has allotted me. These days won’t last forever. Thank you to every single person who was on the journey with us this year."