Record-breaking swimming championships in Budapest

The 2024 World Short Course Swimming Championships concluded in Budapest with a historic display of talent and achievements at the iconic Duna Arena. Over six days, athletes set 30 world records and 13 junior world records, thrilling fans and redefining the limits of the sport.

The United States dominated the event, winning 39 medals (18 gold, 13 silver, 8 bronze), led by 21-year-old Gretchen Walsh, who broke 11 world records—nine individual and two relay. Walsh’s highlights included gold in the 50m freestyle (22.83 seconds) and her role in the women’s 4x100m medley relay world record (3:40.41).

Canada’s Summer McIntosh impressed with three gold medals, three world records, and five junior records, while Switzerland’s Noé Ponti claimed three individual golds, earning him the title of Best Male Swimmer. Walsh received the Best Female Swimmer award.

The men’s 4x100m medley relay saw the neutral team of Lifintsev, Prigoda, Minakov, and Kornev set a world record (3:18.68). Athletes were rewarded financially, with $25,000 per world record and $10,000 bonuses for unbeaten performances.

The event featured 985 athletes from 195 countries, reaching global audiences in 150 territories with over 36 hours of live coverage. World Aquatics President Husain Al-Musallam praised the event’s success, calling it a new benchmark for competitive swimming.

Looking ahead, the 2025 World Junior Championships will be held in Otopeni, Romania, from 19-24 August. Over 600 young swimmers are expected to compete, building on Budapest’s legacy of excellence.

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