Sydney McLaughlin sets world record in 400m hurdles at the Olympics
Sydney McLaughlin set a world record in the Women’s 400M hurdles event at the 2020 Olympics, taking gold while U.S. teammate Dalilah Muhammad won silver. The previous world record was 51.90 seconds, a number eclipsed by McLaughlin as she finished in 51.46.
Sydney McLaughlin sets world record
In an exciting finish, McLaughlin and her fellow medalists pushed each other to the limit. Gold and silver went to the U.S. runners after both broke the previous world record time. Sydney McLaughlin set the world record with a 51.46 finish, narrowly beating Dalilah Muhammad who timed at 51.58. The previous world record was set by McLaughlin herself when qualifying for the 2020 Olympic Games.
In any other race, bronze medalist Femke Bol of the Netherlands might have taken gold. Her third place finish was just shy of the previous record, completing the race in 52.03 seconds. All three medalists put on an amazing performance to be remembered as a highlight of the 2020 Olympic Games.
An incredible finish
The race came down to the final hurdle, and McLaughlin was not the clear winner coming into it. CBS Sports highlighted the gap she closed down the stretch.
The record-setting performance caught the attention of people all over as well. Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers called her performance “incredible” and shared his support via Twitter.
Dick Vitale gave his own shoutout, sharing his own viewing experience and his catchphrase.
Representing the U.S. national team
Fans from America quickly found themselves cheering for both McLaughlin and Muhammad, and the finish delivered. The pair of competitors both expressed their pride in being able to represent their country after the race.
In a post-race interview, McLaughlin was able to see footage of her friends and family watching the race from home. Sharing the interview with Muhammad, both detailed how glad they were with the outcome.
The new 400M hurdles champion, Sydney McLaughlin competed for the University of Kentucky before she turned professional. Silver medal winner Dalilah Muhammad also is a former collegiate athlete, running for the USC Trojans.
Muhammad won the 2016 gold medal in the 400M hurdles previously, while the 2020 games is McLaughlin’s first.
Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images