Dutch hurdling sensation Femke Bol has expressed disappointment over the news that reigning world and Olympic champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone will not compete at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. The highly anticipated showdown between the two dominant forces in the women’s 400m hurdles will have to wait, and Bol isn’t hiding her feelings.
Speaking candidly to reporters after her semifinal heat, Bol said, “It’s a pity, really. I was looking forward to racing Sydney again on the biggest stage. We bring out the best in each other, and it pushes the sport forward.”
Bol and McLaughlin-Levrone have been at the forefront of redefining the 400m hurdles, with both women clocking world-class times and dazzling fans with record-breaking performances. Their last major clash was at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, where McLaughlin-Levrone won gold in world-record time, while Bol took bronze.
In the years since, Bol has dominated the European circuit and picked up gold at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest in McLaughlin-Levrone’s absence. The American hurdler has been plagued by injury setbacks and recently confirmed she would sit out the 2025 edition to focus on recovery and long-term goals.
“I respect her decision,” Bol added. “Athletes know their bodies best, and health always comes first. I’ll still do my best to deliver a great race for the fans, but yes, everyone wanted to see that matchup.”
With McLaughlin-Levrone out, Bol becomes the overwhelming favorite to retain her world title. But for track fans, the dream duel between two generational talents will have to wait once more.
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