By Stig Editor 
Shock Switch: Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Abandons 400m Hurdles for Bold New Challenge at 2025 World Championships
In a move that’s sending shockwaves through the track and field world, Olympic and world champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone has announced she will not compete in her signature 400m hurdles at the upcoming 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. Instead, the American sprint queen is setting her sights on a brand-new challenge the open 400m flat.
The bold decision comes as McLaughlin-Levrone continues to evolve as one of the sport’s most versatile and electrifying talents. The 24-year-old, who shattered the world record in the 400m hurdles with an astonishing 50.68 seconds at the 2022 World Championships, is now looking to conquer new territory on the global stage.
> “I’ve accomplished a lot in the 400m hurdles,” Sydney shared in a recent interview. “Now it’s time to test myself in a different way. The flat 400m has always been in the back of my mind, and Tokyo feels like the perfect place to go after it.”
Fans and analysts alike are buzzing about the move, with many calling it a “legacy-defining gamble.” While Sydney has already clocked world-class times in the 400m flat posting sub-50 second performances this will mark her first time competing exclusively in the event at a major global championship.
The 2025 showdown promises to be electric, with McLaughlin-Levrone expected to line up against global titans like Marileidy Paulino, Salwa Eid Naser, and Britton Wilson making it one of the most anticipated events of the entire championships.
Her decision also opens the door for new contenders in the 400m hurdles, as the reigning queen steps aside. Rising stars like Femke Bol and Shamier Little will now eye the podium with greater ambition in her absence.
As always, Sydney’s mix of humility, fierce ambition, and raw talent is fueling global excitement.
> “Whether hurdles or flat, when Sydney runs, the world watches,” said Team USA’s head coach.
McLaughlin-Levrone’s Tokyo campaign is more than just a lane switch it’s a declaration: greatness isn’t confined to one race.