“What an honor, a blessing, and a privilege. I never want to take these moments for granted.” Said the American sprinter and hurdler, a master of the 400 meters, who claimed gold at the Paris Olympics. However, her triumph didn’t just end there—she shattered her own World Record, blazing through the distance in 50.37 seconds, a dazzling 1.5 seconds ahead of the runner-up! Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s record-shattering performance, which unfolded on her birthday, was a gift to herself and to the world. “Grateful to God for this opportunity, grateful to be celebrating my 25th birthday like this.” This momentous achievement marked the fifth time an American had rewritten their own world record and crowned her as the first woman to win back-to-back Olympic gold in the 400-meter hurdles since the event’s debut at the Los Angeles 1984 Games.

She stands as the first track athlete to shatter four world records in a single event, etching her name into the annals of history with unparalleled brilliance. Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, hailing from a lineage steeped in athletic prowess, embarked on her track and field journey from a tender age, driven by a legacy of greatness. And as the saying goes, the rest is history. From her Olympic debut at the 2016 Rio Games, where she dazzled at just 17, to seizing gold in the eerie silence of Tokyo 2020, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone now regards the Paris Olympics 2024 as her true Olympic stage, where the dream truly unfolded. “I think this was my first real Olympics, and I’m grateful for that in its fullness.”

While every athlete typically has a cherished supporter who believes in their potential, the unwavering backing of her entire family buoyed Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s journey. Yet, there was one individual who truly elevated her career, and she attributes much of her success to this pivotal figure. Keep reading to find out who this extraordinary person is.

Who is the person who elevated Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s career?

“It was just so fun. I think I think he knew even back then that track was something I was gonna go forward with and he was really encouraging even at such a young age.” Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s 4th-grade teacher, Mister Tennant, was a beacon of encouragement, recognizing her budding potential and nurturing her early promise into the star she was destined to become. Indeed, he wasn’t mistaken—Sydney has shattered her own world record for the fifth time, turning his early faith into a resounding truth!

In an interview with NBC New York, the 25-year-old recounted how Mr. Tennant, with unwavering faith, always placed his bets on her. She fondly remembered racing the boys during her school days, fueled by his steadfast belief in her potential. “My 4th grade teacher Mister Tennant, he used to officiate races during recess and I would race the boys and he always had his bets on me.” 

There’s no denying that Mister Tennant’s unwavering belief in Sydney’s potential was spot on; she’s now illuminated the global stage, turning his faith into a dazzling reality and showcasing her brilliance to the world! Despite the steadfast support from all corners, Sydney grappled with her own shadows of anxiety, fear, and self-doubt, navigating through a storm of inner turmoil.

At just eight years old, Sydney McLaughlin envisioned a dazzling future. Seventeen years later, she’s turned that vision into a reality, standing tall as a world record holder and a reigning champion!