‘You can’t please everybody’ — Why Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone does not race as often as fans would wish

has defended her stance over the reason she does not race very often as she prepares to take part in the inauguralin Kingston, Jamaica this weekend.

McLaughlin-Leverone has cemented her status as arguably the greatest female 400 meter hurdler of all time.

At the , she set a new world record for the sixth time and successfully defended her Olympic title with a dominant performance.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latestfrom Pulse Sports.

Ronney Onyango has officially joined Sogndal Fotball with the aim of honouring his late father.

Given her stature, fans might have expected her to take part in more races, apart from the major championships, something has not done often.

“People think I don’t race the races they want me to run,” McLaughlin-Levrone told. “I do race — and you (CITIUS MAG) even made a whole video breaking down how many races I’ve actually won. You can watch that video. I race.”

She went on to explain that while she understands the desire to see her compete more frequently, she also has to prioritize her well-being.

“There are athletes who race even less than I do. I think the reality is, I appreciate that the sport wants me in the spotlight. But at the same time, as an athlete — for my health, for my mental health, and for my physical health — I have to make decisions that people may not be okay with. And I have to be okay with that.”

Johnathan McKinstry has unleashed a scathing criticism of local Kenyan players in regards to securing moves abroad compared to their West African counterparts.

For McLaughlin-Levrone, who has delivered some of the most breathtaking performances in recent track and field history, quality always trumps quantity.

“I love being able to put the sport on display. I try to give the best performances I can whenever I step on the track. But you can’t run a world record every time. My body can’t do that. My mind can’t do that.”

“Sure, I could run more races,” she added, “but they may not be fast times. And then the reality becomes, people are going to be upset because they’re not fast times. So it’s a lose-lose, right? And I have to live with that — and that’s okay.”

With the Grand Slam Track meet offering a $100,000 prize for each event winner, McLaughlin-Levrone isn’t just racing for headlines this time  she’s racing for a serious payday. 

African countries have often stolen the spotlight on the world's grandest stage, accruing multiple Olympic medals, but which ones are the most decorated?

By doubling in the 400m flat and her signature 400m hurdles, she could pocket $200,000 if she wins both — a move that underlines just how intentional she is with her racing schedule.

This weekend marks her earliest season opener ever and her first time competing in Jamaica. Typically, she only attempts the 400m/400mH double at U.S. Trials or major global meets, making this appearance all the more significant.

“Ultimately, I’m happy to be here. I’m happy to represent the sport. I try to do it to the best of my ability. But the reality is, you can’t please everybody. I’m just going to keep trying to carry myself in a way that represents track and field well.”

Whether she races once or ten times in a season, McLaughlin-Levroneis very intentional on what she wants.