Historic Night in Tokyo
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone made history at the world championships in Tokyo by becoming the first woman in nearly four decades to break 48 seconds in the 400 meters. She clocked 47.78 seconds, with Marileidy Paulino close behind at 47.98, making them the second and third fastest women in history after Marita Koch’s 47.60 from 1985.
A Race for the Ages
The showdown was unlike anything McLaughlin-Levrone had faced in years. Paulino, the reigning Olympic and world champion, pushed her to new heights. McLaughlin-Levrone surged ahead in the final stretch, but Paulino closed in, making it a thrilling finish. Their performances shattered the perception that Koch’s long-standing record was untouchable.
Training and Determination
McLaughlin-Levrone credited her coach, Bobby Kersee, and intense training with former UCLA runner Willington Wright for preparing her to run under 48 seconds. Kersee emphasized that she had trained specifically for this moment, knowing that only a 47-second performance could secure victory in such a competitive field.
Impact on Track and Field
The result has transformed the women’s 400 meters into one of the most exciting events in athletics. Third-place finisher Salwa Eid Nasar ran 48.19, a time that would have been enough to win in past championships. Britain’s Amber Anning noted the inspiration the race provides to the next generation of athletes, proving that seemingly impossible marks are within reach.
Looking Ahead
While McLaughlin-Levrone is undecided about whether to continue focusing on the 400 meters or return to hurdles, her achievement opens new possibilities. Her coach suggested she may use lessons from the 400 to aim for another historic barrier: breaking 50 seconds in the 400-meter hurdles.
Other Highlights
Australia’s 17-year-old Gout Gout impressed in his debut, running 20.36 in the 200-meter semifinal. Meanwhile, Noah Lyles delivered a season-best 19.51 in the 200-meter semis, sending a strong message ahead of the final against Kenny Bednarek and Letsile Tebogo.
McLaughlin-Levrone’s sub-48 performance marks a turning point in track and field, breaking down barriers once thought unscalable. With rivals like Paulino and Nasar also pushing the limits, the women’s 400 is entering a new golden era of competition and record-chasing.
