Running News Daily

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone to Debut in 100m Hurdles at Philly Grand Slam Meet—A New Chapter Begins June 9

One of track and field’s most celebrated athletes is stepping into a new lane—literally.

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, the Olympic and world champion in the 400m hurdles, will compete in the 100m hurdles for the first time as a professional at the Grand Slam Track Meet in Philadelphiaon June 9, 2025. The event marks a bold move for a star known for redefining her own limits.

The meet is part of the Grand Slam Track series, an ambitious new project that launched in Kingston, Jamaica in May 2025. The series aims to bring excitement and elite matchups to iconic track venues with high-energy formats and streamlined scheduling. Unlike traditional leagues, Grand Slam Track events are standalone competitions that prioritize fan experience and top-tier competition without the bureaucracy of point-based rankings.

The Philly Grand Slam will be held at historic Franklin Field, home of the Penn Relays, and is expected to draw a packed crowd and worldwide attention—especially with McLaughlin-Levrone on the start list.

Why 100m hurdles, and why now?

Sydney was a dominant sprint hurdler in high school and has hinted in recent years that she still has unfinished business with the shorter hurdles. Her transition comes as no surprise to insiders:

• It’s a return to her roots: Before becoming a 400m hurdles world-beater, she posted elite-level times in the 100m hurdles as a teen.

• A lighter load physically: The 100m hurdles is demanding but significantly less punishing than the 400m hurdles, especially post-Olympics.

• A new challenge: With multiple Olympic and World titles already secured, Sydney may be seeking fresh goals—and this could open the door to a hurdles double in future major championships.

“I’ve always loved the hurdles,” she said in a statement ahead of the meet. “This is about stepping outside my comfort zone and having fun.”

With the 100m hurdles field likely to include top U.S. and international talent, fans will see how Sydney stacks up—technically, tactically, and mentally—against the best over 10 barriers and 100 meters.

Whether it’s a one-off experiment or the start of a new direction, June 9 in Philly is must-watch track.