‘Running Became a Burden’ – Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Reveals Why She Almost Quit Track After Rio Olympics

‘Running Became a Burden’ – Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Reveals Why She Almost Quit Track After Rio Olympics

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, one of the most dominant figures in track and field, has opened up about a pivotal moment in her career when she nearly walked away from the sport. In a candid interview, the 400m hurdles Olympic champion revealed that the immense pressure and mental toll following her debut at the 2016 Rio Olympics made her question her future in track and field.

 

At just 16 years old, McLaughlin-Levrone was already a prodigy, becoming the youngest U.S. track and field athlete to compete at the Olympics in 44 years. While her qualification for the Rio Games was an extraordinary achievement, the expectations placed on her shoulders quickly turned into a heavy burden.

 

“At one point, running became a burden rather than something I loved,” McLaughlin-Levrone admitted. “It felt like I was carrying the weight of everyone’s expectations, and I started questioning whether this was really what I wanted to do.”

 

Though she didn’t make the podium in Rio, the experience of competing at the highest level brought intense scrutiny and self-doubt. The transition from being a rising star to a professional athlete came with pressures that went beyond the track.

 

The aftermath of the Rio Olympics saw McLaughlin-Levrone grappling with her identity in the sport. The joy of running, which had once been her escape, started feeling like a job she had to endure rather than a passion she cherished.

 

“I was just a teenager, but suddenly, I had people expecting me to break records and win medals every time I stepped on the track. I didn’t know how to handle that pressure at the time,” she revealed.

 

She admitted that the thought of quitting crossed her mind several times as she battled the mental and emotional strain of competing at such a high level.

 

Despite her struggles, McLaughlin-Levrone eventually found her way back to the sport she once loved. The turning point came when she shifted her focus from external expectations to internal fulfillment.

 

“I had to redefine why I was running. I needed to run for myself, not for the expectations of others,” she said.

 

Over time, McLaughlin-Levrone’s renewed mindset and faith played a crucial role in her resurgence. She went on to dominate the 400m hurdles, setting multiple world records and clinching gold at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics with a stunning performance that cemented her legacy in the sport.

 

McLaughlin-Levrone’s journey has not only reshaped her career but also positioned her as a vocal advocate for mental health in athletics. She frequently speaks about the importance of balancing physical and mental well-being, encouraging young athletes to prioritize their mental health over external pressures.

 

Her story is a testament to resilience, proving that even the greatest athletes face struggles that go beyond their physical abilities. By overcoming her doubts and rediscovering her love for the sport, McLaughlin-Levrone has not only solidified her place in track and field history but also inspired countless athletes facing similar battles.

 

Today, McLaughlin-Levrone continues to push boundaries in track and field, with her sights set on new records and more Olympic glory. However, her greatest victory might just be the strength she found in overcoming adversity.

 

“Looking back, I’m grateful I didn’t quit. The journey has been tough, but it’s shaped me into the person and athlete I am today.”

 

Her words serve as a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about perseverance, self-discovery, and learning to love the journey, even when it feels like a burden.