The World Aquatics Championships 2025 in Singapore pits the best swimmers of world against each other and fans can expect record-breaking performances and intense rivalries.
From record holders to Olympic champions, the field has big names to captivate the fans. The championship also serves as a first major test in the lead-up to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
Here are four US swimmers who are sure to make waves at the World Aquatics Championships 2025:
1. Katie Ledecky
Katie Ledecky is the top athlete to watch out for, having recently broken her own world record in the 800m freestyle with a blistering time of 8:04.12. The nine-time Olympic champion will appear in her three signature events- the 400m, 800m, and 1500m freestyle- where she remains the heavy favorite in the category. However, she will face a stiff challenge from Canadian star Summer McIntosh in the 400m and 800m.
2. Regan Smith
Regan Smith won the 100m backstroke world record in the 2024 edition. She will feature in all three backstroke events. Her biggest threat would be Australia’s Kaylee McKeown, creating one of the most exciting rivalries of the championships. Smith will also appear in the 200m butterfly, where she’s a serious medal contender, showcasing her impressive range and stroke versatility.
Also Read: World Aquatics Championships ’25: China Dazzle To Win Gold In Team Free
3. Kate Douglass
After claiming an Olympic gold medal at Paris 2024 in the 200m breaststroke, Kate Douglass will be looking to capture her first world title in the event. She bagged back-to-back silver medals in 2023 and 2024. The American has the technique and skills to finally achieve the breakthrough. She is also a top contender to set a new world record.
4. Gretchen Walsh
Gretchen Walsh is emerging as one of the most dangerous sprinters in the world. She’ll compete in four individual events — the 50m freestyle, 50m and 100m butterfly, and 100m freestyle — and will also play a crucial role on Team USA’s relay squads. As the current world record holder in the 100m butterfly, Walsh enters as the favorite in that event and could end up with multiple medals before the meet is over.
