The conclusion of the World Aquatics Championships witnessed a remarkable display from the United States women’s swimming team, culminating in an unprecedented victory in the women’s 4×100-meter medley relay. Despite grappling with a stomach illness that had impacted several members during the week, the team showcased resilience and determination in their final race.
Record-Breaking Performance
The U.S. 4×100-meter medley relay team concluded the championship in style by not only winning the gold medal but also breaking their own world record. They clocked in at an impressive 3:49.34, surpassing the Australians, who finished in second place with a time of 3:52.67. China secured the bronze medal with a time of 3:54.77.
Race Against Top Contenders
Leading into the race, both the U.S. and Australia stood equal, with eight gold medals each. As the top qualifiers for the final, expectations were high. American Regan Smith set a strong pace at the beginning, narrowly defeating her rival Kaylee McKeown in the backstroke segment. “It was really, really important,” said Smith about her start, pointing to McKeown’s previous successes against her. “I love having the privilege of leading off this relay. … It’s always a big deal to me to get us off to a really great start.”
Dominating the Relay
Following Smith’s impressive performance, Kate Douglass, the gold medalist in the 200-meter breaststroke, continued to build on the early lead, maintaining a significant advantage for the U.S. in the second leg. Gretchen Walsh, who had won gold in the 100-meter butterfly earlier in the week, further extended the lead in the butterfly segment. Finally, Torri Huske, an Olympic silver medalist in the 100-meter freestyle, completed the relay, sealing the victory well ahead of the previous world record of 3:49.63 set last year at the Olympics.
Overcoming Adversity
This championship had proven challenging for the U.S. team, partly due to a stomach illness contracted during a training camp in Thailand. Several swimmers faced setbacks, withdrawing from major events or displaying performances below their best. Despite these hurdles, the relay race offered a compelling and satisfying conclusion for the team.
Conclusion of the Championships
The victory in the relay marked the U.S. squad’s ninth gold medal of the championships and contributed to an impressive medal haul of 29 total medals, including both gold and other medal categories. Australia, though finishing second, secured a commendable total of 20 medals with eight golds. This final race not only marked a triumphant return for the U.S. team but also reflected their ability to rally under pressure, leaving a lasting impression on the championship.
Team USA ends the world championships in style and breaks their own WORLD RECORD in the women’s 4x100m medley relay! 🙌 #AQUASingapore25 pic.twitter.com/OaAyeBxq1T
— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) August 3, 2025
