Ryan Murphy dominated the US Olympic swimming trials on Thursday, securing his place in the Paris Olympics with a world-leading time in the 200m backstroke. This victory sets the stage for a potential double backstroke gold in Paris, following his impressive 100m backstroke win earlier in the week. At 28 years old, Murphy displayed remarkable strength, fending off a fierce challenge from 19-year-old Keaton Jones, who ultimately secured the second spot. This win marks a historic achievement for Murphy, making him the first man to sweep the 100m and 200m backstrokes at three consecutive US Olympic trials. It’s a feat that stands out in a nation known for legendary backstroke swimmers like Lenny Krayzelburg and Aaron Peirsol.
Murphy expressed humility and gratitude, acknowledging the legacy of those who came before him. He emphasized the importance of continuous hard work and dedication, stating, “I’m never going to view myself as better than them and there’s definitely more work to do, but I’ll take this one in and be happy about it.”
Meanwhile, Regan Smith continued her impressive run at the trials, adding the 200m butterfly to her Paris program after setting a world record in the 100m backstroke earlier in the week. In a thrilling finish, she overtook 17-year-old Alex Shackell, who also qualified for her first Olympics with a second-place finish. Smith, known for her remarkable strength and versatility, showcased her determination once again by winning the 200m backstroke semi-final just 45 minutes after her butterfly victory. Smith’s journey to Paris will be a family affair, as her brother Aaron Shackell, also 19, secured his Olympic berth in the 400m freestyle on Saturday. Their father, Nick Shackell, swam for Great Britain at the 1996 Olympics.
Kate Douglass impressed with a trials record of 2:19.46 in the 200m breaststroke, leading from start to finish to secure her second victory of the week. She acknowledged the pressure of performing under the spotlight, particularly after seeing a large poster of herself at the stadium, but expressed how the crowd’s energy helped her overcome the nerves and achieve her goals. Behind her, Lilly King and Alex Walsh battled for second place, with King ultimately securing the spot with a strong final lap. The night wasn’t over for King, as her boyfriend proposed to her moments after the race.
In a remarkable comeback, Caeleb Dressel, who finished third in the 100m freestyle, secured a spot on the relay team and impressed with the second-fastest time in the 50m freestyle semi-finals. Chris Guiliano, winner of the 100m freestyle, took the lead with a time of 21.59 seconds. Dressel, a five-time gold medalist from the Tokyo Games, won his semi-final in 21.61 seconds, showcasing his determination to return to the top of the sport after a brief hiatus in 2022.
A tight race for the final spot in the 50m freestyle final saw Adam Chaney and Jonny Kulow tied for eighth in the semi-finals. Both swimmers then engaged in a thrilling swim-off, with Chaney ultimately securing the last berth in the final. The US Olympic trials continue to showcase the incredible talent and determination of American swimmers as they strive for glory in Paris.
