Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone has become a household name in the world of track and field, not just for her jaw-dropping performances but also for the narrative surrounding her off the track. At just 25, the American sprinting sensation has already secured four Olympic gold medals and broken the world record in the 400m hurdles six times. Her place in the sport’s history books is secure. Yet, according to several U.S. track and field analysts, her most difficult battle has not taken place on the track—but rather in how she is portrayed by the media.
Speaking recently on The Final Leg Track & Field Podcast, a panel of respected analysts shed light on what they believe is McLaughlin-Levrone’s biggest career hurdle to date: dealing with media scrutiny. Despite her excellence and consistency, she has often been criticized for her low media profile and selective race schedule. This scrutiny, they argue, has unfairly overshadowed her incredible achievements and the very real health challenges she’s faced.
A focal point of this media criticism came in 2023, when McLaughlin-Levrone withdrew from the World Championships due to a knee injury. Though the decision was made in the best interest of her long-term health and career, fans and media alike were quick to question her commitment and frequency of participation in her signature event, the 400m hurdles. Her absence at major international meetings like the Diamond League in 2024 only added fuel to the fire.
Yet according to the athlete herself, the portrayal often misses the mark. In a candid conversation with World Athletics, McLaughlin-Levrone shared that her biggest struggle hasn’t been physical endurance or competition—it’s been the challenge of navigating false or skewed media narratives. “There’s a lot of misunderstanding about who I am and why I make certain decisions,” she said. “That’s probably been the hardest part—not being seen clearly.”
McLaughlin-Levrone’s introspective and faith-driven approach to life and sport has sometimes clashed with the expectations placed on public figures, especially in an era where social media demands constant visibility and explanation. Her decision to keep a low profile and race selectively has often been interpreted as aloofness or lack of competitive desire. In reality, her approach is deeply intentional and grounded in what she believes is best for her physical and mental well-being.
Support from her inner circle has been a critical lifeline. Her coach, Bobby Kersee—himself a track and field legend—has consistently emphasized the importance of longevity and health in her career trajectory. Her husband, former NFL player Andre Levrone, also plays a vital role in helping her stay grounded amidst the noise and expectations.
Now, as McLaughlin-Levrone sets her sights on the 2025 World Championships, she’s once again letting her training and results do the talking. Though the media may continue to scrutinize, her fans and the track world at large know one thing for certain: when Sydney steps onto the track, she delivers history-making performances.
In the end, McLaughlin-Levrone’s career is not only a masterclass in athletic brilliance but also in perseverance—against injuries, against doubt, and perhaps most notably, against the glare of the public eye.