KATIE Ledecky continues to dominate the 1,500-meter freestyle, securing another gold medal at the swimming world championships
in Singapore.
She finished in 15:26.44 seconds, a testament to her enduring prowess in the event. This latest triumph marks her 22nd world championship gold medal and her 28th overall.
When combined with her impressive tally of nine Olympic gold medals and 14 overall, Ledecky’s career now boasts a remarkable 31 combined Olympic and world championship golds out of a total of
42 medals.
Ledecky’s performance on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, was her fifth-fastest time ever in the 1,500m freestyle, coming close to her own 2018 world record of 15:20.48.
Her consistent excellence is further highlighted by the fact that she now holds 25 of the top 26 fastest times in history for the 1,500m freestyle, solidifying her legacy as the most decorated female swimmer in the
sport’s history.
Italy’s Simona Quadarella earned the silver medal, setting a new European record with her time of 15:31.79, while Lani Pallister of Australia secured the bronze in
15:41.18.
The American swimming team, meanwhile, faced significant challenges at the championships, as many members contracted “acute gastroenteritis” during a pre-championship training camp.
Despite this health setback, the team showed remarkable resilience in Tuesday’s finals, earning one gold medal and three silver medals.
Head coach Greg Meehan praised the team’s strong “vibe” and ability to compete effectively despite the difficulties, acknowledging the tireless efforts of the medical staff working overtime to support the athletes.
In other key races, Romania’s David Popovici won the men’s 200-meter freestyle with a time of 1:43.53, overcoming American Luke Hobson, who finished with 1:43.84, in the final
50 meters.
Australia’s Kaylee McKeown claimed victory in the women’s 100-meter backstroke, narrowly beating American Regan Smith. McKeown’s winning time was 57.16 seconds, just .19 ahead
of Smith.
South Africa’s Pieter Coetze, a 21-year-old rising star, won the men’s 100-meter backstroke in 51.85 seconds. And finally, Germany’s Anna Elendt secured the gold medal in the women’s 100-meter breaststroke with a time of 1:05.19. American Kate Douglass took the silver. / FROM THE WIRES