By Stig Editor 
Sydney Sidelined: Fever Forces Olympic Champion McLaughlin-Levrone to Pull Out of Memphis Showdown
In a surprising turn of events, Olympic gold medalist and world record-holder Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone has withdrawn from the highly anticipated Ed Murphey Classic in Memphis, citing a high fever that left her unable to compete.
The 24-year-old track superstar, who has been in blistering form this season, took to her Instagram story late Friday night to announce her decision. “I’m disappointed to have to withdraw from the Ed Murphey Classic,” she wrote. “I was eager to get on the line, compete in front of the amazing Memphis fans, and make a real statement. Unfortunately, I’ve been battling a fever and need to prioritize my recovery.”
The Ed Murphey Classic was set to be McLaughlin-Levrone’s final tune-up race ahead of the 2025 USATF Outdoor Championships, which double as the U.S. Olympic trials. Her absence now raises questions about how the illness might impact her performance timeline leading up to the trials, scheduled for July 31–August 3.
Despite the disappointment, fans and fellow athletes have flooded social media with well wishes for the track queen, expressing hopes for a swift recovery and a powerful comeback at the nationals.
McLaughlin-Levrone has been a dominant force in the 400m hurdles and flat events, and her presence in Memphis was expected to electrify the crowd. With her eyes still set on another Olympic run, she’s choosing health first a decision that speaks volumes about her discipline and championship mindset.
As Memphis missed its star attraction, one thing is certain: Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is down but far from out and the world will be watching her next move.