American women’s swimming unfolded a new chapter when American swimming sensation Regan Smith broke a record and created history in just an hour. Smith has overtaken the crown from fellow swimmer Gretchen Walsh in Short Course Meters (SCM) 100m backstroke and set a record of 54.89s, leaving her competitors and fans in awe. This historic win made Smith emotional, and she was seen in tears after the race.

Walsh’s performance made waves in swimming earlier in the day and broke old records, but Smith’s performance left her behind and made a new record. The fierce rivalry between both American swimmers has sparked discussions about the future of American women’s swimming. What sets Smith apart from others, and how does she break the barriers?

Smith’s emotional triumph in a competitive arena

After Regan Smith’s victory over Gretchen Walsh, she felt a surge of joy and pride, and that converted into happy tears. 22-year-old swimmer recorded her personal best and set up a World Cup record in 100m backstroke. Smith has also broken the record of Shiho Sakai of Japan set at 55.23s in the previous World Cup. Smith bagged silver in 50m backstroke and gold in 200m butterfly a night ago in Shanghai itself, both being her personal best.

8-time Olympic medalist Smith crushed the record of Walsh, which seemed untouchable, but Smith’s focus and commitment inspired her to match the achievement. The extra layer of mental pressure was also a possible factor while performing, but Smith pushed her limits and surpassed the pressure. And with that, Regan Smith has made her place as one of the top swimmers in the world, alongside Walsh. Smith’s extraordinary achievement wasn’t just a victory over her rivals—it was a personal win after months of relentless training. 

Smith’s record ties up with fellow swimmer Gretchen Walsh and makes her the second American to reach the under 55s mark. The competition is going high, and with that, one has to be prepared well—both physically and mentally. After setting up a record, Smith stated, “It was a good swim. That was about what I thought I could be tonight. I am glad that I executed a good race.”

Regan Smith’s performance was worth watching in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games also, as she clinched silver in three techniques: 100m backstroke, 200m backstroke, and 200m butterfly. With that, she broke the American record in the 200m butterfly.

While Smith’s emotional triumph resonated deeply, Walsh’s record-setting swim also set the stage. With her time, Walsh not only made a statement but also fueled the competitive spirit to help push athletes to their limits. Though her victory was for a short period, she held a backstroke record and added a dramatic twist at the dual meet.

Regan Smith has set new standards

Earlier that day, Gretchen Walsh made the headlines with an exceptional performance on the World Cup stage. But her happiness couldn’t last long as her fellow swimmer, Smith, broke her record and became one of the top contenders. These quick record-breaking performances have positioned both athletes as leading contenders in American swimming.

Walsh’s ability to break records consistently talks about her versatility and strength in the pool. She previously set a record in her career when she broke Sarah Sjostrom’s 100-meter butterfly with a time of 55.18 in the 2024 United States Olympic trials. Walsh also bagged four medals in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, with two gold and two silver. Two golds in the 4x100M medley relay and 4x100M mixed medley relay, and two silvers in the 100m butterfly.

Both swimmers raised the bar with their achievements, and their individual performances signal a new era in the swimming world. For instance, while Regan Smith gained victory in the 100m backstroke, Australian swimmer Kaylee McKeown previously defeated Smith in the 50m backstroke, illustrating the fierce competition.

The achievements of both swimmers have sent a clear message that the U.S. women’s team is getting stronger and has the capability to break each other’s record within hours. As the two young swimmers continue to reach new heights, how far can this friendly rivalry go, and which records will fall next?