“We Don’t Really Talk” – Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone on Why ‘Good Luck’ Is Off-Limits Before Races

“We Don’t Really Talk” – Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone on Why ‘Good Luck’ Is Off-Limits Before Races

In the high-stakes world of track and field, every athlete has their own way of mentally preparing for competition. But for Olympic and world champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, one thing is certain—there’s no room for casual pre-race chatter.

 

The 400m hurdles sensation recently shared insights into her race-day mindset, revealing why she and her competitors don’t exchange pleasantries before stepping onto the track.

 

No ‘Good Lucks’—Just Focus

“We don’t really talk,” McLaughlin-Levrone said, emphasizing that in those final moments before a race, silence speaks louder than words. While some athletes thrive on encouragement from their peers, the 24-year-old prefers to zone in, shutting out distractions.

 

“It’s not about being rude or unfriendly,” she explained. “It’s just that when you’re in the zone, you don’t want to break that focus with small talk or well wishes.”

 

For McLaughlin-Levrone, the pre-race period is about mental preparation, visualization, and staying locked into her strategy. While some athletes rely on friendly exchanges to ease tension, she sees it differently.

 

A Common Trait Among Elite Athletes

McLaughlin-Levrone isn’t alone in this approach. Many top-tier competitors adopt similar pre-race rituals, choosing solitude over socializing. Sprinters like Usain Bolt, despite his playful demeanor, often had a focused side before stepping onto the track. Likewise, Michael Phelps was known for his intense pre-race stare behind the blocks.

 

For McLaughlin-Levrone, the moments before the gun goes off are sacred. “It’s about getting in that mindset where nothing else matters except executing your race.”

 

The Psychology Behind the Silence

Sports psychologists agree that athletes use different methods to handle pressure, and silence can be a powerful tool. By avoiding external distractions, competitors can heighten their focus, reduce nerves, and mentally prepare for peak performance.

 

In McLaughlin-Levrone’s case, eliminating pre-race ‘good lucks’ isn’t about dismissing camaraderie—it’s about prioritizing the mental sharpness needed to dominate on the track.

 

As she continues her journey toward future championships, her laser-focused approach remains a key part of what makes her one of the greatest hurdlers of all time.