The New Jersey-native added to her storied professional career today on the world stage at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, this time qualifying for the women’s 400m event after winning the USATF Championship in Eugene on August 2.
McLaughlin-Levrone crossed the finish line at 47.78 seconds, the second-fastest time in world history, just .18 seconds behind German Marita Koch’s world record of 47.60 in 1985.
McLaughlin-Levrone, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and six-time world record holder, becomes the first person to win a world title in both the 400m hurdles and the 400m.
“I think barriers are broken when the time is right,” McLaughlin-Levrone said. “I think records come when they’re supposed to. It’s really just about executing and trusting the process.”
On Tuesday, McLaughlin-Levrone recorded the then-fastest 400m time in American history, and claimed the world lead, in the semifinals with a 48.29 mark.
With the win today, she earns her fourth career gold medal at the World Championships, including two in the 4x400m relay, one in the 400m hurdles, and now one in the 400m. This also marks her first win at this event since 2022 in Eugene.
“It’s amazing. All glory to God. Honestly, this whole season, I knew there were a lot of people doubting me in making the switch and change,” McLaughlin-Levrone said after the win. “But ultimately, it was trusting in the Lord and having faith in our training.”