22-Year-Old Regan Smith Breaks World Record at U.S. Olympic Team Swimming Trials, Rediscovers Passion for Swimming with Coach Bob Bowman

22-year-old Regan Smith has set a new world record in the Women’s 100m backstroke final at the U.S. Olympic Team Swimming Trials in Indianapolis, Indiana. She broke the previous record held by Australian Kaylee McKeown, finishing in 57.13 seconds.

Smith first broke the record in 2019 and faced pressure and expectations that followed her initial success. To rediscover her passion for swimming, she took a step back from the sport and left Stanford University to turn professional and work with coach Bob Bowman in Arizona. Despite facing challenges such as a brief illness, Smith continued to improve her times and set new records, culminating in her world record-breaking performance at the trials.

With her family cheering her on in the stands, Smith expressed joy and pride in her achievement. Qualifying for her second Olympic team, she reflected on her journey and growth since her early success as a teenage phenom. Her victory at the trials marks her return to the international stage with a renewed drive to compete at the highest level. Her dedication, resilience, and love for the sport have propelled her back to the top, setting the stage for an exciting showdown with her rival at the upcoming Olympics in Paris.