Sydney McLaughlin, the woman who shattered all records in the 400m hurdles and was named “Athlete of the Year” for 2025, is preparing for the most important role of her life. The 26-year-old American star revealed on Instagram that she is expecting her first child, sharing tender photos with her husband, former NFL player Andre Levrone Jr.

“A Blessing from the Lord”

In a heartfelt message to her 1.5 million followers, McLaughlin expressed her joy:

“We created a human with the love of my life. Oh, how we prayed for you… And the Lord answered! You are our greatest blessing, and we already love you so much. We can’t wait to meet you! The ‘cool’ parents are coming…” she wrote, alongside an ultrasound image.

A Blow to the Budapest “Ultimate Championship”

McLaughlin’s pregnancy means she will miss the entire 2026 season—a huge loss for Sebastian Coe’s new World Athletics Ultimate Championship, set to debut in Budapest in September 2026. The absence of the sport’s biggest star dims the event’s shine, especially after McLaughlin flirted with Marita Koch’s historic 400m record just last year.

Strategic Goal: Los Angeles 2028

Choosing 2026—a year without Olympics or World Championships—to take a break was a deliberate move. McLaughlin aims to come back stronger in 2027, reaching peak form for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

The four-time Olympic gold medalist hopes to make history there, despite the demanding schedule that makes a “double” in the 400m hurdles and flat 400m incredibly challenging. She has also expressed interest in competing in the 200m, an event where she already boasts impressive times.