United States Sets New World Record, Tops Swimming World Medal Table

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The United States finished the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore on a high note, setting a new world record in the women’s 4×100-meter medley relay and topping the overall medal table. The American relay team posted a time of 3:49.34, surpassing the previous record set during the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Regan Smith, Kate Douglass, Gretchen Walsh, and Torri Huske led the charge in the final event of the championships, securing the ninth gold for the U.S. and capping off a total of 29 medals across the meet. The performance underscored America’s continued dominance in relay events and reasserted the nation’s standing on the global swimming stage.

Meanwhile, France’s Léon Marchand claimed gold in the men’s 400-meter individual medley with a time of 4:04.73, completing a standout performance that included a world record in the semifinals. Canada’s Summer McIntosh closed her campaign with a fourth individual gold in the women’s 400-meter individual medley, finishing in 4:25.78, more than seven seconds ahead of her closest competitor.

Despite a challenging start to the championships that included reported illness among team members and criticism from former athletes such as Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte, Team USA rebounded in the final days. Veteran swimmer Katie Ledecky contributed another highlight by winning her seventh world title in the 800-meter freestyle with a championship record time of 8:05.62, marking her eleventh consecutive gold in that event at a world level.

The American team’s resilience was evident throughout the week, overcoming setbacks and rising global competition to deliver a strong finish. Swimming officials acknowledged the need for continued internal reforms, particularly in areas of athlete development and leadership, but expressed optimism as attention now shifts to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

With veteran experience and emerging talent on display in Singapore, Team USA leaves the championships with renewed confidence. The final-day record and consistent medal haul reaffirmed the country’s leading role in international swimming, positioning it well for future success.