Athletes to Watch: Sydney McLaughlin

At age 17 in Rio, Sydney McLaughlin was the youngest U.S. Olympian in track and field since 1972. Considered a star in the making, she was twice named the Gatorade Girls National High School Track and Field Athlete of the Year (2016, 2017).

The New Jersey native went pro after her freshman season at University of Kentucky, where in addition to her signature event – 400m hurdles – she also showed her strengths in sprints, long jump and short hurdles.

2019 has been a breakout year for her so far – she is undefeated in the 400m hurdles and holds the world’s fastest time this year in that event (as of July 15, 2019). She can also juggle on a unicycle and has worked with kids at a juggling camp.

Visit Sydney's Team USA profile