Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s name was already etched in the annals of track and field history. And this time in the US Olympics Trials at Hayward Field, McLaughlin just highlighted her name once again by shattering her own world record in women’s 400-meter hurdles for the fifth time. McLaughlin-Levrone sprinted to an astonishing 50.65 seconds, lowering her previous world record of 50.68 seconds. As she crossed the finish line, her expression of disbelief mirrored the magnitude of her achievement. And such a feat is bound to leave even the most seasoned spectators in awe. 

Among the sea of supporters, one notable figure was quick to celebrate McLaughlin-Levrone’s historic moment. Tech mogul and the husband of the tennis legend Serena Williams shared a snapshot of the scoreboard, where McLaughlin-Levrone’s name and the record-breaking time graced the top row. Alexis Ohanian tagged Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and captioned the post, “Wow WR @GoSydGo 🇺🇸”.

The sprint sensation herself couldn’t believe the fact that she has managed to make a new world record for the fifth consecutive time. After touching the finish line, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone shared, “Honestly, praise God, I was not expecting that. Anything is possible in Christ. I’m just amazed, baffled, and in shock.” However, this is not the first time that Alexis Ohanian has taken an interest in the track and field world or shown support for the success of female athletes.

Alexis Ohanian’s new venture aims to elevate women’s track events with increased prize money

Alexis Ohanian is not just a tennis enthusiast but is also a diehard soccer fan. And witnessing the iconic status that his wife has created in her sport, Ohanian wants their daughter Olympia to step into the athletic realm while growing up. During the 2019 Women’s FIFA World Cup, the father of the daughter proposed a suggestion to his wife. Ohanian expressed his wish to see little Olympia play soccer on the international stage. However, Serena was prompt with her response. She stated her condition bluntly saying, “Not until they pay her what she’s worth”.

This has probably acted as a spark for the father. He wants to work towards making a better platform for women in the athletic world. Alexis Ohanian announced he has decided to invest in the women’s track realm from his venture Seven Seven Six. After the end of the grandest event is done and dusted in Paris, US athletes will have a new opportunity to rise and shine. 

At the end of September, Ohanian is planning to start with the project of uplifting women’s track events. Moreover, he also wants to make sure that phenomenal athletes are not denied their deserving pay. He was not satisfied with the fact that the highest value was only $30,000. Ohanian has announced the prize money to boost the athletes to work even harder. The prize money would be $60,000 for the first prize, for second place the amount would be $25,000, and $10,000 for the third position for every particular event. Partnering with athletes like Gabby Thomas, Ohanian aims to create a sustainable platform. His aim is to provide financial support for female athletes outside of the Olympic years.