Olympic champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone continued to show her versatility on the track, running 11.21 seconds in the women’s 100m at the Grand Slam Track Series in Philadelphia.
The performance marked a rare sprint appearance for the 400m hurdles world record-holder. A strategic move as she sets her sights on a potential 200m/400m double at the next Grand Slam stop in Los Angeles later this month.
“It was really fun,” said McLaughlin-Levrone. “It’s awesome to come back home, switch up events, and just enjoy the energy here. The atmosphere was great.”
Despite calling her execution “not the best” — admitting she “popped right up” with “no dry phase whatsoever”. She left the track content. “For that being the first 100, and for there to be so much to work on, I’m proud of that.”
While she isn’t planning another 100m this season, she didn’t rule it out for the future: “Hopefully for sure again in my career.”
The outing is part of a broader shift in her 2025 campaign, with McLaughlin-Levrone revealing that the 200m and 400m are now her main focus. “That’s the plan for LA right now — the 4 and the 2, as long as I stay healthy.”
The outing is part of a broader shift in her 2025 campaign, with McLaughlin-Levrone revealing that the 200m and 400m are now her main focus. “That’s the plan for LA right now — the 4 and the 2, as long as I stay healthy.”
She credits the Grand Slam series for offering opportunities to experiment. “I appreciate the chance to show I have range and can hang with these really fast girls. I don’t like being confined to one box.”
As the season builds toward U.S. Trials and World Championships, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone says she’s focused on competing with the best, including current 400m stars Marileidy Paulino and Sada Williams. “I just want to be able to compete with the best and continue to progress.”
She also praised the Grand Slam organizers and Philadelphia’s hosting of the third leg of the series. “They’re doing a wonderful job. Each slam keeps getting better — faster times, stronger competition, and more energy.”
With Los Angeles next on the calendar and momentum on her side, McLaughlin-Levrone’s range — and ambition — is only growing.
