Regan Smith has recently been on fire in the Women’s 200m Backstroke, sparking excitement about her potential to extend her world-record breaking streak. At the Swimming World Cup’s final stop in Singapore on November 2, Smith shattered the short course world record in the 200m Backstroke, clocking an astounding 1:58.83. This achievement is particularly significant, as the previous record, set by Kaylee McKeown of Australia in November 2020, had stood unbroken for nearly three years. McKeown’s record had itself replaced a six-year-long mark set by Hungary’s Katinka Hosszú, emphasizing the impact of Smith’s accomplishment.
The Smith-McKeown Rivalry Elevates the Backstroke to New Heights
The rivalry between Regan Smith and Kaylee McKeown has taken the backstroke discipline to new levels of competition. With Smith’s world record now standing as the fastest time in the short course, her current form indicates she could achieve even more milestones. In Singapore, her stunning performance came just shy of winning the overall World Cup title, missing it by only 0.1 point to fellow American Kate Douglass.
Smith’s Record-Breaking Momentum in the 100m Backstroke
Smith’s dominance also extends to the 100m Backstroke, where she recently broke the short course world record—not once, but twice. She first recorded 54.41 in Incheon, followed by an even faster 54.27 in Singapore, demonstrating her ability to keep pushing the limits. This momentum builds upon her impressive long-course track record as well. At the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Smith secured five medals, including gold in both the Women’s and Mixed 4x100m Medley Relays, along with silvers in the 100m Backstroke, 200m Backstroke, and 200m Butterfly. Additionally, she is a five-time world champion from her successes across the 2019, 2022, and 2023 World Aquatics Championships.
Budapest Awaits: Can Smith Deliver Another Record-Breaking Performance?
With the upcoming World Aquatics Swimming Championships (25m) in Budapest marking her debut in this event, Smith’s recent momentum has fans and experts eager to witness what could be a historic meet. Can Smith continue her world-record breaking path and further solidify her status in backstroke history? The world will be watching to see if she can maintain her incredible streak on the international stage.
