Femke Bol ‘Not Focused’ on Her Rivalry with McLaughlin-Levrone: Dutch Hurdles Star Staying Locked on Her Own Lane
Dutch track sensation Femke Bol has shrugged off growing media narratives about a rivalry between her and U.S. star Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, insisting that her focus remains squarely on her personal development rather than on any head-to-head drama. As both athletes continue to dominate the women’s 400m hurdles and make waves in global athletics, fans and pundits have increasingly hyped a showdown that could define the event for years to come. But for Bol, the story is much simpler.
“I’m not focused on the rivalry,” Bol said in a recent interview. “For me, it’s always been about improving myself. That’s where my energy goes.”
Bol vs McLaughlin-Levrone: A Modern Track Tale
The comparison between Femke Bol and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is inevitable. Bol, the European champion and world indoor record holder in the 400m, has blossomed into one of the most consistent athletes in track and field. Meanwhile, McLaughlin-Levrone, the Olympic and world record holder in the 400m hurdles, has pushed the event to extraordinary levels, setting a jaw-dropping mark of 50.68 seconds at the 2022 World Championships in Eugene.
Though the two haven’t met frequently on the track due to differing schedules and injuries, their looming head-to-head clash is widely anticipated—particularly with the Paris 2024 Olympics on the horizon. But while fans may be counting the days until their next meeting, Bol maintains that her training isn’t guided by external expectations.
Eyes on the Clock, Not the Competition
Bol’s performances in recent seasons show she’s letting her times do the talking. After setting a world indoor record in the 400m earlier this year and claiming gold at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest in McLaughlin-Levrone’s absence, Bol’s confidence is quietly surging.
“I want to be the best version of myself,” Bol emphasized. “Whether Sydney is in the race or not doesn’t change my mindset. It’s about running clean, running fast, and executing my plan.”
This approach is reflective of her coaching philosophy under Laurent Meuwly, who has long championed process over pressure. Together, they’ve crafted a training regimen focused on speed endurance, technical precision over hurdles, and mental resilience.
A Mutual Respect
Despite the growing speculation around their potential rivalry, there is no bad blood between Bol and McLaughlin-Levrone. In fact, the two athletes have expressed admiration for each other’s talents and accomplishments. When asked about McLaughlin-Levrone, Bol was quick to praise her rival’s game-changing performances.
“She’s an incredible athlete. What she’s done for the 400m hurdles is unbelievable,” Bol said. “It’s inspiring.”
Likewise, McLaughlin-Levrone has acknowledged Bol’s consistency and discipline, calling her “a phenomenal competitor” in past interviews.
Paris 2024: A Clash in the Making?
As the countdown to the 2024 Summer Olympics continues, the athletics world eagerly awaits a potential final showdown between Bol and McLaughlin-Levrone. With both women likely to be at their peak, the women’s 400m hurdles final could become one of the standout events in Paris.
But if you ask Bol, she’s not circling any names in her calendar.
“My biggest rival is always the clock,” she concluded.
Final Thoughts
Femke Bol’s refusal to get caught up in rivalry talk reflects the mindset of a champion grounded in self-improvement. While the media may thrive on creating dramatic narratives, Bol continues to blaze her own trail—gracefully, powerfully, and on her own terms. Whether or not she meets McLaughlin-Levrone in Paris, one thing is clear: Bol is focused on her goals, not her rivals.