Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is no stranger to record-breaking runs or headlines! But Sydney recently went on to surprise the world by revealing a never-seen-before side of her. The University of Kentucky recently inducted Sydney McLaughlin into its Hall of Fame. The speech that came after brought out a new side of her. The Olympian did not just acknowledge and take pride in her accomplishments. She reflected on how far she had come.

“I may not have a degree—sorry, Mom,” said Sydney. A quick reminder that she only spent one year at Kentucky before turning pro. Was it the right decision to be in college? According to Sydney, it was priceless. “It was here, on this track, that I learned for the first time that 50 seconds was possible in the 400 hurdles,” she said, remembering her former coach, Edrick Floréal. She went on to share a funny anecdote, too. “The way that he (Flo) pushed me to where I was on the track, seeing jellyfish flying around, that’s how hard the workout was.”

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s training with Flo laid the groundwork for the golden career she has under coach Bobby Kersee. Yet another piece of proof that her roots in Kentucky continue to influence her journey. However, Kentucky for Sydney wasn’t all about the track. “There were significant moments of growth, of joy, that could never be replaced,” she said. “I learned what true friendship looks like, and I learned how to do my laundry for the first time.”

Despite only spending a year in the UK, Sydney made it clear that time spent there was transformative. “My year here was hard; I’m not going to act like it wasn’t, as it is for many college athletes all over the country, but I wouldn’t change it for the world, honestly,” she said. During the year Sydney spent there, she became an NCAA champion, set a college record in the 400m hurdles, and formed friendships that would last a lifetime. And the lessons learned would stay for a lifetime. One that she caries despite her new mentorship.

“I would not be the woman that I am had I not attended the UK,” added Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone. She went on to credit her coaches and teammates but also to the friends and mentors who supported her through the highs and lows of college life. “MJ, Carly, Avery, you are all very special to me, and I love you guys. I would not have met you had I not come to this school. Passion and Lisa, thank you for always being a voice of reason and encouragement when I needed guidance.”

As Sydney ended her speech, she gave a final nod to the school that helped launch her career. “We are Hurdle U if you do not know,” she joked. “I am so very grateful for this honor, and I pray I can continue to make the University of Kentucky proud.” And while Sydney is on a record-breaking journey, Kentucky is still special to her. In her own words, “Go Cats!” But Kentucky was just the start. Behind each victory and record, another powerful force has driven Sydney’s success—one that extends beyond the track.

Kentucky is not the only one behind Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s fame!

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s success begins at the doors of Kentucky. Her journey, however, has brought her today to a place beyond her imagination. After taking home two golds at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Sydney has revealed the secret behind her strength. Family.

Paris 2024 Olympics – Athletics – Women’s 400m Hurdles Final – Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France – August 08, 2024. Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone of United States celebrates with her national flag after winning gold and a new world record. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez TPX IMAGES OF THE DAYTo Sydney, her family has been a massive pillar of support. Remember her 400m hurdles title in Paris? Her family was right there flaunting their “TEAM SYD” T-shirts with pride. After all, her belonging to a family of athletes speaks for itself. Her father, Willie, is a former track star himself. “It’s a family function,” said Sydney recently, crediting her parents and siblings for their constant support. And who’s her biggest supporter? The former NFL wide receiver, aka Sydney’s husband, Andre Levrone Jr.

Sydney, talking about their relationship, went on to say, “He takes care of certain things for me on race day, which I really appreciate, so I can focus on what I got to do.” From her days on the track as a six-year-old to being globally unbeatable, her family has been the backbone of her growth. With a Hall of Fame induction, it is safe to say they would be prouder than ever of her.