New Jersey native Jack Alexy made history at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore by setting a new American record in the 100-meter freestyle event. Competing in the second semifinal heat, Alexy’s time of 46.81 seconds surpassed the previous record held by Caeleb Dressel, who had set the mark at the 2019 World Championships with a 46.96-second time. The 46.81 seconds represent an improvement of 0.18 seconds over his own U.S. Open record from June, placing him third all time in the event. This victory solidifies his position as a formidable contender for the final, which is scheduled for Thursday.
The competition in the 100-meter freestyle is fierce, with several strong competitors vying for the top spot. Romanian swimmer David Popovici is among the favorites, known for his explosive start and strong technique. American Patrick Sammon, also competing in the event, represents another strong challenge. The presence of China’s Pan Zhanle adds an additional layer of competitiveness, as Pan holds the world record in the event. It’s worth noting that Pan set the world record at the Paris Olympics with a time of 46.40 seconds, making him a formidable opponent in the final race.
Alexy’s performance highlights his dedication and training, as he also earned a gold medal at the Paris Olympics in 2024 on the 4×100 freestyle team. He contributed to a silver medal in the 4×100 medley relay, showcasing his versatility as a swimmer. His journey in the global swimming arena reflects the intense competition and the high level of skill required to excel at the world championships. The final on Thursday will be a crucial moment as the athletes will face each other in the ultimate test of speed and endurance.
The World Aquatics Championships in Singapore are a significant event in the international swimming calendar, bringing together top athletes from around the world to compete for glory. The competition for the 100-meter freestyle title is a testament to the dedication and excellence of the athletes, setting the stage for an exciting final on Thursday. With such strong competitors, the race promises to be one of the most anticipated events of the championships.