Born in Oldenzaal, Van Langen has a degree in economics at the University of Amsterdam. Before she started running, she played football.
At the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, she won the Olympic title in the 800 m in a time of 1.55,54, a time which remained her personal best. After her Olympic title, she was plagued by various injuries. Her best result after 1992 was a 6th place at the 1995 World Championships. She retired from the sport in 1998.