In the ever-evolving world of track and field, few rivalries have captivated audiences in recent years like that of Femke Bol and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone. Their names have become synonymous with brilliance, dominance, and mutual respect in the 400-meter hurdles. Now, after her impressive victory at the 2025 Stockholm Diamond League, Bol has set her sights on a new challenge — leading the Netherlands at the upcoming European Athletics Team Championships.
While Bol’s recent performances have reaffirmed her place among the world’s elite, they also signal the beginning of another exciting chapter in her head-to-head rivalry with McLaughlin-Levrone. As both athletes chase glory, records, and national pride, the 2025 season is shaping up to be one for the ages.
A Statement Win in Stockholm
Femke Bol’s appearance at the Stockholm Diamond League meet was more than just another race — it was a declaration of intent. The Dutch hurdler surged to victory in the women’s 400-meter hurdles with a time that not only won the event but also put her in striking distance of McLaughlin-Levrone’s world-leading time this season.
In challenging conditions and against a competitive field, Bol showcased her hallmark smooth stride pattern and late-race acceleration, characteristics that have made her nearly untouchable in Europe and a threat on the global stage. Her Stockholm victory did not just earn her another medal; it confirmed her return to peak form ahead of a busy summer.
Building a Legacy for the Netherlands
Bol’s attention now turns to her national duties. She is set to represent the Netherlands at the European Athletics Team Championships, a continental meet that pits Europe’s top track and field nations against one another. Unlike the more individual-focused Diamond League, the European Championships emphasize teamwork and national pride — an arena in which Bol has always thrived.
At only 25 years old, Bol has already etched her name in Dutch sporting history. Her 2022 gold in the European Championships, followed by medals in the World Championships and Olympics, established her as one of the Netherlands’ most decorated athletes. Her leadership and consistency make her a cornerstone of the Dutch squad heading into the team championships.
Speaking to Dutch media after her Diamond League win, Bol emphasized her excitement:
“Representing my country is always special. To be able to carry this form into a championship where it’s about the whole team — it gives me more motivation.”
Her involvement not only boosts Dutch medal prospects but inspires the next generation of Dutch athletes aiming to break into the global stage.
The McLaughlin-Levrone Rivalry: A Modern Classic
Since Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone burst onto the scene as a teenage prodigy and later shattered the 400m hurdles world record, her duels with Femke Bol have become one of track and field’s most compelling narratives.
McLaughlin-Levrone, who clocked a stunning 52.07 seconds earlier this season, currently holds the world-leading time. However, Bol’s form in Stockholm indicates she is narrowing the gap. The Dutch star’s best this season is just a few tenths behind Sydney’s time, hinting that their next head-to-head clash could be the highlight of the year.
Despite the intense competition, both athletes have maintained a healthy respect for each other. Bol has often spoken of her admiration for Sydney’s technique and mental strength, while McLaughlin-Levrone has recognized Bol’s relentless pursuit of excellence and her ability to rise on the biggest stages.
With the World Championships and Olympics on the horizon, their rivalry is expected to intensify — not with animosity, but with the mutual drive to redefine what’s possible in women’s hurdles.
Technical Brilliance and Mental Maturity
One of the key reasons behind Bol’s continued success is her technical refinement. Trained under renowned coach Laurent Meuwly, Bol has developed a stride pattern and hurdle technique that emphasizes rhythm, efficiency, and composure. Unlike many of her competitors, she rarely falters on the final stretch — often finding an extra gear just when it matters most.
Mentally, Bol has matured significantly since her breakout year in 2021. She now races with a calm confidence, understanding her body and race strategy in ways that separate the great from the good. Her ability to peak at the right moments — as seen in Stockholm — underscores her evolution from rising star to established champion.
What Comes Next?
Femke Bol’s season is far from over. After the European Athletics Team Championships, all eyes will be on the World Championships and ultimately the 2026 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Each meet will bring new challenges — whether in the form of faster competitors, tougher tracks, or tighter turnarounds.
While McLaughlin-Levrone continues to focus on select meets in the U.S., often mixing flat sprints with hurdles, Bol’s European schedule is more robust, allowing her to maintain competitive sharpness throughout the season. Whether this will prove an advantage remains to be seen.
There is also growing speculation about whether Bol may eventually experiment with the 800 meters or return to indoor events where she has enjoyed significant success. For now, though, her focus remains clear: build momentum, win for her country, and stay sharp for the bigger battles ahead.
Conclusion: A Duel for the Ages
Track and field thrives on rivalries, and the ongoing story of Femke Bol versus Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is arguably the most captivating one in women’s athletics today. Both athletes are not only record-setters but symbols of grace, determination, and sportsmanship.
Bol’s victory in Stockholm and her upcoming role at the European Athletics Team Championships are not just career milestones — they are statements. She is ready, willing, and more than capable of challenging McLaughlin-Levrone’s reign atop the 400m hurdles.
