Australian Kaylee McKeown is the world record holder in the 100m backstroke, with a time of 57.33 seconds. Regan Smith, an American swimmer, set a new American record in the same event just three weeks before the Olympic Trials, with a time of 57.51 seconds at the Speedo Grand Challenge in Irvine, California. This new record surpasses her previous record set in 2019 during the World Championships when she was just 17 years old and broke Missy Franklin’s world record in the medley relay.
Kaylee McKeown and Regan Smith have a competitive history, with McKeown besting Smith in several events at the world championships last July. Despite their rivalry, both swimmers have shown impressive performances and are expected to make strong showings at the upcoming U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials in Indianapolis from June 15-23. The top two athletes in most events will earn a spot on the team for Paris. With her recent performance, Regan Smith is poised to make a strong showing at the trials and continue her journey as one of the fastest women in history.