Track and field fans are in for a thrilling spectacle as Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone prepares to take on some of the world’s fastest short hurdlers at the upcoming Philly Slam, scheduled for May 30 through June 1. This event is shaping up to be one of the season’s most highly anticipated matchups, as McLaughlin-Levrone returns to the 100m hurdles—an event she rarely contests—against a field stacked with world-class talent.
Among the top names she’ll be facing is Jasmine Camacho-Quinn, the Olympic champion from Puerto Rico. Camacho-Quinn brings not only elite speed but also a competitive edge, having defeated McLaughlin-Levrone the last time they faced each other over the hurdles on April 24, 2021. That meeting was a reminder that while Sydney dominates the 400m hurdles, the shorter sprint hurdles offer a different kind of test—one that requires explosive speed, flawless technique, and razor-sharp rhythm between the barriers.
But McLaughlin-Levrone is not stepping into this race as an underdog. While she may not specialize in the 100m hurdles, her versatility and raw athleticism make her a threat in any event she enters. At that same 2021 meet where Camacho-Quinn took the win, Sydney still managed to finish ahead of Tobi Amusan—who would go on to become the world record holder in the 100m hurdles just a year later. That performance alone speaks volumes about McLaughlin-Levrone’s natural talent and competitive fire.
This year’s Philly Slam presents an intriguing opportunity for fans to see how far she’s come since then. After dominating the 400m hurdles and recently posting a blazing 49.69 in the flat 400m, Sydney is clearly in outstanding form. The question now is: can she translate that strength and speed into a podium-worthy run in the sprint hurdles?
Adding to the excitement is the atmosphere the Philly Slam is known for. The meet draws elite talent from across the globe and serves as a key stop on the road to major championships. For athletes, it’s a chance to make a statement ahead of the U.S. Olympic Trials and, ultimately, the 2024 Paris Olympics. For fans, it’s a chance to witness head-to-head battles that could foreshadow what’s to come on the sport’s biggest stage.
Beyond the race itself, this is also a testament to McLaughlin-Levrone’s fearless approach to competition. Rather than sticking strictly to the event she has already mastered, she’s stepping out of her comfort zone, testing herself against the best in the world in an event that is not her specialty. It’s this mindset—rooted in humility, hunger, and an unrelenting drive for growth—that continues to endear her to fans and elevate her legacy.
As the Philly Slam draws near, all eyes will be on the starting blocks. With stars like Camacho-Quinn, Amusan, and McLaughlin-Levrone ready to clash, this could be one of the most electrifying 100m hurdles races we’ve seen in years.
Stay tuned—because this one will be worth every millisecond.