Reigning world champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone made an emphatic statement at the start of her 2025 track season, clocking a world-leading time of 52.76 seconds in the women’s 400-meter hurdles at the Grand Slam Meet in Kingston, Jamaica. The American superstar’s performance not only marked a triumphant return to full-time competition but also sent a clear message to her rivals—she is back and in top form.
Held under the lights at the National Stadium, the Grand Slam Meet attracted elite athletes from around the world, but all eyes were on McLaughlin-Levrone as she made her season debut. Having recently announced her return to regular competition after a brief hiatus, anticipation was high for her first race of the year. She did not disappoint.
Running in lane five, McLaughlin-Levrone demonstrated the poise and power that has made her one of the most celebrated athletes in track and field. From the gun, she quickly settled into her signature rhythm, displaying flawless technique and an efficient stride pattern as she surged ahead of the field. By the final 150 meters, it was clear the race was hers. She crossed the line in 52.76 seconds—comfortably ahead of the competition and setting the fastest time in the world this year.
This performance was particularly significant as it marked McLaughlin-Levrone’s first official race in the 400-meter hurdles since her historic run at the 2022 World Championships in Eugene, where she shattered her own world record. Though she competed in a few flat races since then, her focus on hurdling had taken a back seat during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Now, with a renewed commitment to the event, the 24-year-old seems poised to reclaim her dominance.
Speaking to reporters after the race, McLaughlin-Levrone expressed satisfaction with her result while acknowledging that the best is yet to come.
“I’m really happy with how I opened the season. This was about seeing where I am physically and mentally, and I think we’re in a great place. There’s still work to be done, but it feels amazing to be back in the hurdles and competing at this level.”
Coached by the legendary Bobby Kersee, McLaughlin-Levrone has been training with a focus on refining her form and endurance in preparation for a demanding season that includes several Diamond League meets and culminates in the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo. Kersee, who watched the race from the stands, was quick to praise her effort.
“She looked strong, smooth, and focused. That’s exactly what we wanted from her season opener. There’s more in the tank, and we’re building toward something special this year,” Kersee noted.
The result in Kingston immediately catapulted McLaughlin-Levrone to the top of the 2025 world rankings and ignited discussion about whether another world record may be within reach this season. While it is still early, her form and confidence suggest that more exceptional performances are on the horizon.
The Grand Slam Meet also featured strong showings from several Jamaican and international athletes, but McLaughlin-Levrone’s run was undoubtedly the highlight of the evening. Fans in Kingston gave her a warm reception, celebrating not just her time, but her presence—a true testament to her global appeal.
With the 2025 season just beginning, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone has already reminded the world why she remains the standard in the 400-meter hurdles. Fast, focused, and fiercely determined, she is back on track—literally and figuratively—and the world will be watching.