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Teen Swimmer Breaks Phelps’ Record at US Swimming Championships
A remarkable achievement unfolded at the 2025 U.S. Swimming Championships when a 16-year-old swimmer made headlines by breaking a record previously held by Olympic legend Michael Phelps. Luka Mijatovic’s feat has propelled him onto the radar for the upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
When discussing Phelps, the swimmer with an unmatched 28 Olympic medals, including 23 gold, any record-breaking performance becomes noteworthy. Mijatovic’s impressive time of 1:45.92 in the 200-meter freestyle event not only set a new benchmark for the 15-16 age group but also eclipsed the previous 17-18 age group record held by Phelps.
Phelps previously completed the event in 1:45.99, marking a nail-biting finish as Mijatovic triumphed over him in the final lap. This moment is a testament to Mijatovic’s tenacity and ability to perform under pressure.
As the excitement builds for the Summer Olympics returning to Los Angeles, Mijatovic’s outstanding performance is a strong signal that he is an athlete to watch. His breakthrough at such a young age points to a bright future filled with potential.
Mijatovic had been preparing for this pivotal moment for several months. Earlier this year, he secured first place in both the 500-yard freestyle and 200-yard freestyle at the California Interscholastic Federation State Championships in May. His dominance in these events has established him as one of the top high school swimmers across the state.
During the Swimming Championships, which commenced on Tuesday, Mijatovic competed alongside established Olympians. Among the notable swimmers were Torri Huske, Bobby Finke—who recently captured the men’s 1500-meter freestyle title—and the celebrated Katie Ledecky. This gathering of talent emphasizes the competitive nature of the championships and the potential for future Olympic stars.
The primary aim of these championships is to provide swimmers with opportunities to qualify for the World Championships, slated to take place in Singapore later this summer. Such platforms hold significant importance as athletes strive to prove themselves on both national and international stages.
Mijatovic’s achievement not only represents a personal milestone but also serves as an inspiration to younger swimmers. His dedication to the sport and consistent efforts reflect the rigorous training and focus required to excel.
As the swimming world watches closely, it remains to be seen how Mijatovic will leverage this success to propel himself forward in his career. Not only has he now challenged established records, but he has also set high expectations for his future performances.
Swimming enthusiasts and the broader sports community are eager to see what lies ahead for this talented teenager. While he has already made his mark, the potential for further achievements looms large as he continues to train and compete at elite levels.
With the Los Angeles Olympics just three years away, Mijatovic’s trajectory suggests that he could become a household name if he maintains his current pace. He represents a new generation of swimmers determined to etch their names in the history books alongside legends like Phelps.
In conclusion, Mijatovic’s record-breaking swim is a powerful reminder of the ever-evolving nature of competitive swimming. New talents rise as established figures cement their legacies, creating a thrilling landscape for future competitions.
