Different event, same outcome for born-again athlete Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone.
The reigning Olympic champion over 400m hurdles switched to the one-lap flat and shot to victory in 48.74s – the fastest time in the world in 2023 and only 0.06s short of the all-time US record.
The switch was expected to be more of a challenge for the 23-year-old, who held out the tantalising prospect of a world record, which she already holds over the hurdles.
“I was very happy and grateful with the time and just a sigh of relief because this has been something I’ve been working towards and I know there’s a lot more there, but this is just showing us that we’re moving in the right direction,” she said.
Again, she used the publicity the performance generated to give God the glory, immediately posting in Instagram: “God’s grace is sufficient for each and everyday. The peace He brings surpasses that of any outcome, and the joy of running for Him, makes these moments that much sweeter.”
The star now dubbed the ‘Queen of Athletics’ has previously posted on Instagram: “What I have in Christ is far greater than what I have or don’t have in life. I pray my journey may be a clear depiction of submission and obedience to God. Even when it doesn’t make sense, even when it doesn’t seem possible. He will make a way out of no way. Not for my own gratification, but for His glory.
“I have never seen God fail in my life. His will is PERFECT. And He has prepared me for a moment such as this. That I may use the gifts He has given me to point all the attention back to Him.”
