At the Toyota U.S. Swimming Championships, Katie Ledecky, Bobby Finke, and Gretchen Walsh each achieved their third event win of the meet, setting them up to lead the U.S. team at the World Championships in Singapore this July and August. Ledecky extended her 15-year win streak in the 1500m freestyle, finishing in 15:36.76—over 25 seconds ahead of her competitors. She currently holds the fastest world times for the 400m, 800m, and 1500m this year, aiming to add to her impressive record of 21 career world titles. If successful in her events, she could move within one title of Michael Phelps’ record of 26.
Ledecky also seeks to surpass Ryan Lochte for the second-most total medals in championships history, with her current count at 26. Her main competition at the upcoming World Championships will come from 18-year-old Canadian swimmer Summer McIntosh, an accomplished athlete in the shorter distances.
Walsh dominated the 50m and 100m butterflies, as well as the 50m freestyle, tying an American record in the latter with a time of 23.91 seconds. With aspirations for her first individual title in a 50-meter pool, she previously excelled in the short course championships.
Finke grabbed wins in the 800m and 1500m frees, alongside the 400m individual medley, though he won’t compete in the latter at Worlds due to scheduling conflicts. As the reigning world champion in the 800m, Finke aims to be the first American man to win the 1500m at the World Championships since 1975.
Additional highlights include Jack Alexy’s impressive win in the men’s 50m freestyle and the victories of Shaine Casas and Alex Walsh in the individual medleys. Broadcast coverage of the championships will air on NBC.
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