But others are also worth noting
Too
While Ledecky is the most notable, other top swimmers are also worthy of attention. Next month, several swimmers will be aiming for their third Olympic Games, including four-time Olympic medalist Abby Weitzer. On the men’s side, former 100-meter backstroke world record holder Ryan Murphy will also be aiming for his third Olympic Games. Murphy won three gold medals at the 2016 Rio Olympics and has won one gold, one silver and one bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Veteran swimmer Nick Fink will once again be looking to win an Olympic medal. The 30-year-old recently won five medals (three gold) in the breaststroke and mixed medley at the 2024 World Aquatics Championships in Doha, Qatar.
Young swimmers will also make their presence felt. Kate Douglas is coming off consecutive impressive performances at the 2023 and 2024 World Championships after sweeping seven gold medals at the last NCAA Championships. The New York City native is well-positioned to make her first Olympic team. Also keep an eye on the Walsh sisters, Alex and Gretchen. Alex won a silver medal in the 200m mixed medley in Tokyo, and Gretchen is looking to make her first Olympic team. Finally, Grimes, who has already qualified for Paris in the open water events, will also be looking to qualify in some indoor events. The long-distance specialist is looking to make the team alongside Ledecky in the 1500m freestyle and 400m individual medley.
On the men’s side, 16-year-old Thomas Heilmann will likely have a strong showing in the 100-meter medley, potentially becoming the youngest U.S. swimmer on the Paris team.
