Léon Marchand Eyes World Records at Swimming Championships in Singapore

Léon Marchand is set to make waves once again as he competes at the swimming world championships in Singapore, starting on July 30 and running through August 3, 2023. The four-time Olympic gold medalist is focused on breaking world records following his remarkable performance at the Paris Olympics last year.

Marchand’s life transformed dramatically after he won his gold medals in Paris. He emerged as a national hero in France, necessitating a significant adjustment in his daily life. “I have to plan things,” Marchand stated, reflecting on the challenges of navigating public spaces since his rise to fame. “I can’t just go on my own in the city and just go get bread.” He noted that it becomes more manageable to travel outside of France, where he feels more at peace.

Having trained under the guidance of renowned coach Bob Bowman at the University of Texas at Austin, Marchand is ready to lead the field in Singapore. This event serves as a pivotal meet for many athletes as they prepare for the upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Joining Marchand in the spotlight are fellow champions Summer McIntosh from Canada and Katie Ledecky of the United States, alongside a talented lineup of Olympians and rising stars.

Among the youngest competitors is 12-year-old Yu Zidi from China, poised to challenge for medals in her three events. Her impressive times and youth add an exciting dynamic to the championships.

Marchand plans to compete in the 200-meter and 400-meter individual medleys, opting out of the 200 butterfly and 200 breaststroke, two events in which he secured gold in Paris. “This is a transition year for me, so I wanted to have a lighter schedule than usual,” he explained. “I’m really excited to do just less than usual, you know, just to see how far I can go, how fast I can go.”

The focus for Marchand will be on breaking the 200-meter individual medley world record, currently held by American Ryan Lochte at 1 minute, 54.00 seconds, as well as his own record for the 400-meter individual medley, which stands at 4:02.50 from the 2023 World Championships in Fukuoka, Japan.

Marchand attributes much of his success to Bowman, who gained fame coaching Michael Phelps to 23 Olympic gold medals. “He knows how to be calm in every situation,” Marchand said of Bowman. “I think he taught us throughout the years. He also had a lot of experience on the biggest stage, so I trust him fully.”

With a streamlined schedule this year, Marchand is eager to make history once more. “Of course I want to break all the records,” he asserted. While the timeline for achieving these goals remains uncertain, expectations are high as he enters the competition in Singapore.