Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone: Meet Her Biggest Supporter, Andre Levrone Jr.

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone: Balancing Olympic Dreams and Personal Life

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is not only a world-class athlete but also a person who balances her professional ambitions with personal commitments. As she gears up to compete in the women’s 400m hurdles at the Paris Olympics, her journey is supported by her husband, Andre Levrone Jr., who brings his own athletic background into their relationship.

Sydney’s Athletic Prowess and Personal Journey

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is widely anticipated to clinch gold in the women’s 400m hurdles at the Paris Olympics. Demonstrating her exceptional talent, she broke her own world record at the U.S. Olympic trials in June, completing the race in an astounding 50.65 seconds. This will be Sydney’s third Olympic appearance, but her first under her married name, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone.

In 2022, Sydney tied the knot with former NFL player Andre Levrone Jr., who she lovingly refers to as her “biggest hype man.” Reflecting on her relationship with Andre, Sydney shared, “I’m so grateful for Andre because he understands the athlete life, the day-to-day, what it takes, and all the little things. We’re very similar just in how we’re wired because of that, which helps us understand each other.”

Meet Andre Levrone Jr.: More Than Just a Supportive Husband

Early Life and Family Background

Andre Levrone Jr. comes from a family deeply rooted in athleticism. The son of Andre and Angie Levrone, he has an older brother, Jonathan, who served a tour in Iraq as a tanker in the U.S. Army, and an older sister, Raquel. Both of his parents were athletes; his mother excelled in track & field, gymnastics, and cheerleading, while his father played linebacker during his service in the Marine Corps.

High School and College Football Career

During his high school years at Our Lady of Good Counsel High School, Andre played as a wide receiver and safety. He continued his athletic journey in college, playing football for the University of Virginia. Despite going undrafted in the NFL after graduating in 2017, Andre signed a contract with the Baltimore Ravens. His professional career also included stints with the Carolina Panthers and Jacksonville Jaguars before he retired in 2020.

Reflecting on his decision to retire, Andre expressed his gratitude on Instagram: “Deciding to no longer pursue a professional football career was a difficult decision, but a necessary one nonetheless. The early mornings, the late nights, the relationships formed, & the relationships lost. Many smiles, laughs, & tears. A fractured vertebrae & countless other ailments… it was ALL worth it. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have abided in my passion for so many years, & to have done so on every level.”

The Love Story: How Sydney and Andre Met

A Serendipitous Connection

The love story between Sydney and Andre began in a rather modern way—through social media. Sydney recounted the moment in her memoir, “Far Beyond Gold: Running from Fear to Faith.” One day, she posted a selfie with the caption “Attention,” referencing a song she was listening to. Andre responded with a direct message that read, “You have my attention. How can I get yours?”

In an interview with the Knot, Sydney elaborated on their initial interaction: “We had a mutual friend who I went to high school with and he went to college with, but we didn’t interact until he slid into my DMs. We started off as friends. He asked me to do Bible study with him and introduced me to so many great people.” She added, “It was the first time I was in a relationship with a man who I felt could lead me in my faith to a place where I wanted to be. We both knew early on that we liked each other and what our intentions were. If I could say one thing about our relationship, it’s that it was always very intentional. Honestly, I knew the fourth day we ever talked. So that’s something.”

From Friendship to Marriage

Their relationship quickly evolved from friendship to something more profound. They began dating, got engaged in August 2021, and eventually married in May 2022. Both Sydney and Andre are vocal about their Christian faith, which plays a significant role in their lives. They are active members of Grace Community Church in Los Angeles, California, where Andre is enrolled in the Master’s Seminary.

Andre’s Professional Life Post-NFL

Transitioning to Real Estate

After retiring from professional football, Andre transitioned into a career in real estate. According to his LinkedIn profile, he served as a commercial real estate advisor with MacKenzie Commercial Real Estate Services. This career shift allowed him to apply the discipline and focus he honed during his athletic career to a new field.

Pursuing Theological Studies

In addition to his real estate career, Andre is also dedicated to his theological studies. He is currently enrolled in the Master’s Seminary, located on the campus of Grace Community Church. This academic pursuit aligns with his and Sydney’s deep commitment to their Christian faith.

Sydney’s Support System

A United Front

Andre’s presence has been a pillar of support for Sydney as she continues to break records and chase her Olympic dreams. He was there at the U.S. Olympic track and field trials when Sydney broke her own world record, and he will undoubtedly be cheering her on at the Paris Olympics as she aims for another gold medal.

Shared Faith and Mutual Goals

Their shared faith and mutual understanding of the demands of an athletic career have made their relationship strong. Sydney often highlights how their similar mindsets and commitment to their faith have helped them navigate the challenges of their respective careers and personal lives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does Andre Levrone Jr. do now?

• Andre Levrone Jr. transitioned from a professional football career to working as a commercial real estate advisor. He is also enrolled in the Master’s Seminary for theological studies.

How did Sydney McLaughlin and Andre Levrone Jr. meet?

• They met through social media after Andre responded to a selfie Sydney posted. Their relationship began as a friendship, which eventually turned into a romantic relationship.

What role does faith play in their relationship?

• Faith plays a significant role in their relationship. Both Sydney and Andre are devout Christians and are active members of Grace Community Church in Los Angeles.

Has Andre Levrone Jr. retired from professional sports?

• Yes, Andre retired from professional football in 2020 after playing for the Baltimore Ravens, Carolina Panthers, and Jacksonville Jaguars.

What are Sydney McLaughlin’s achievements?

• Sydney McLaughlin is a world-class hurdler who broke her own world record in the women’s 400m hurdles at the U.S. Olympic trials, finishing in 50.65 seconds. She is favored to win gold at the Paris Olympics.

Where are Sydney and Andre currently residing?

• Sydney and Andre are based in Los Angeles, California, where they are active members of Grace Community Church.

Conclusion

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s journey to the Paris Olympics is not just a testament to her athletic prowess but also to the strong support system she has in her husband, Andre Levrone Jr. Their relationship, grounded in shared values and mutual understanding, exemplifies how personal and professional lives can harmoniously coexist. As Sydney aims for another gold medal, she does so with the unwavering support of her biggest cheerleader, Andre.

By maintaining a balance between her athletic ambitions and personal life, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone serves as an inspiration to many, proving that with the right support and shared values, one can truly excel in all facets of life.