"What resulted was constant anxiety" - When Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone reflected on her emotions before overcoming her fear with faith

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone once reflected on her journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. The multiple-time Olympic medalist frequently credits her success to God.

With four Olympic gold medals to her name, McLaughlin-Levrone is a devout Christian who attended Union Catholic High School in Scotch Plains, New Jersey. Her husband, Andre, is also vocal about his Christian faith. Both of them are members of Grace Community Church in Los Angeles, California.

In her autobiography "Far Beyond Gold: Running from Fear to Faith," published in January 2024, McLaughlin-Levrone shared her journey of battling anxiety and perfectionism while emphasizing how she honors God both in her athletic career and personal life.

In one excerpt from her autobiography, McLaughlin-Levrone reflected on how, in the past, she sought control and validation from others, which fueled her anxiety and fear, leading to depression.

"My main identity is that I’m a daughter of God. I belong to him. For a long time, I didn’t think much about honoring and serving him. I grew up going to church and always believed in God to some extent, but in my everyday life, I still wanted to control everything. And I looked to other people for my value and peace. What resulted was constant anxiety. Debilitating fear. And, at times, depression.

The hurdler further highlighted that by God's grace, she now finds peace in her identity.

"By God’s grace, those emotions do not consume me today. Yes, I still battle them. But they no longer have the control over my life they once did," McLaughlin-Levrone said.

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"God was beyond gracious" - When Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone credited her Paris Olympics victory to God

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone during a press conference in Monaco. (Credits: Getty)

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone bagged two gold medals in the 400m hurdles and 4x400m relay at the Paris Games. She defended both titles at the French capital. Following her glorious victory, she highlighted the challenging week where her faith was tested despite which she found comfort in God.

"In a week where my faith was tried, my peace wavered, and the weight of the world began to descend, God was beyond gracious. 🥹"

"It’s always hard preparing for one moment you may or may not get back. In my mind what kept repeating were the words “Trust in Jesus”. I didn’t know what the outcome would be, but I did know He was who I wanted to lead me through the journey."

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone registered a world record for the sixth time to bag the 400m hurdles title.