22-year-old Regan Smith has set a new world record in the Women’s 100m backstroke final at the U.S. Olympic Team Swimming Trials in Indianapolis, Indiana. She finished in 57.13 seconds, breaking the previous record held by Australian Kaylee McKeown.
After achieving initial success as a teenage phenom, Smith struggled with the pressure and expectations that followed her success. She took a step back from the sport to rediscover her passion and left Stanford University to turn professional and work with coach Bob Bowman in Arizona, rebuilding her career and returning to form. Despite facing challenges like a brief illness, Smith continued to improve her times and set new records, culminating in her world record-breaking performance at the 2024 trials. With her family cheering her on in the stands, Smith expressed joy and pride in her achievement, qualifying for her second Olympic team.
Smith’s victory at the trials marks her return to the international stage, with a renewed drive to compete at the highest level. Her dedication, resilience, and love for the sport have propelled her back to the top, setting the stage for an exciting showdown with her rival at the upcoming Olympics in Paris.
