“Just trying to be the best overall athlete I can be,” said Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone. And no doubt, her recent antics are pointing exactly in those directions. Signing up for the Grand Slam Track, the Olympic gold medalist made her presence known. Competing in her first event, McLaughlin-Levrone made quick work of the 400mH category. She almost glided through the hurdles, winning by a huge margin. Well, McLaughlin-Levrone does have a knack for winning all the events that she takes part in. She did it in the Olympics and is now again in GST. Competing in the 400m flat, McLaughlin-Levrone once again proved her mettle, clocking 50.32 while taking the victory. And while she bagged a whopping 24 points, McLaughlin-Levrone also hinted at her future career. Something interesting.  

As soon as McLaughlin-Levrone finished her double, she was swarmed by the media. She started off by thanking the crowds. Praising the energy levels of the audience, the Olympic gold medalist stated how she was overwhelmed to witness such a warm reception. However, right after, McLaughlin-Levrone shared a surprising career update. She will be looking to venture out into different categories other than the 400 mH and 400m. “We might do the hundred, hundred hurdles. We might do the two, four. So, it’s going to be a little bit of everything. I don’t think it’s just four, four hurdles,” said McLaughlin-Levrone. Now, that is the mentality of a champion. Despite the 400m being her safe zone, McLaughlin-Levrone wants to come out of it!

“I really just want to kind of test myself over a range of events and kind of see where I fare up with the best of the best,” continued the Olympic gold medalist. She also detailed how her goal will not deviate from the 400, but as of now, the focus is on the short distance as well. Going forward, McLaughlin-Levrone confirmed that she would appear in the 100m and 100 mH in Philly, much to the delight of the fans. “But right now we’re looking at the hundred, hundred hurdles for Philly and maybe the two, four in June……But for right now, enjoying the slams and just trying to be the best overall athlete I can be.” As a matter of fact, the Olympian had previously appeared in the 100m and 100 mH events. Her personal best in those were 11.07s and 12.65s, respectively. 

Meanwhile, after the end of the first Slam, McLaughlin-Levrone has not only won $100k but is also leading with 24 points. And it is only fitting because she was the very first athlete that Michael Johnson signed for the track bonanza.

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone led the charge as the first star of Michael Johnson’s Grand Slam Track

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone isn’t just winning races—she’s effortlessly winning the sport. The Olympic champion and world record holder is officially the first registered runner for Michael Johnson’s Grand Slam Track, signaling a powerful start for the ambitious new league. With her signature poise and star power, McLaughlin-Levrone isn’t just joining GST—she’s helping lead it, signing on as both an athlete.

“Sydney got it right away, and I knew that she would,” Johnson said. The legend further added, “She’s one of those athletes that likes to race on the big stage. She loves it.” With four showcase events scheduled each year, GST promises to turn the track meet into a must-watch. And Sydney, no stranger to pressure or podiums, looks ready to deliver in every appearance.

GST’s model favors its stars, a base salary, prize money ranging from $100,000 to $10,000, and the freedom for athletes to wear their own gear. That means McLaughlin-Levrone can race in New Balance with no sponsorship conflicts holding her back. Her exclusive commitment to all four Slams places her at the forefront of a league that isn’t just looking to elevate competition—but revolutionize it. With Sydney out front and winning it all, GST just had a golden start indeed!