2025 was a remarkable year for Canadian sprinter Josh Liendo, who dominated both collegiate and international stages. From breaking records at the SEC Championship to setting a short-course world record in the 100-meter butterfly, Liendo's talent and determination knew no bounds.
Let's dive into the details of his incredible journey.
The SEC Championship: A Record-Breaking Start
Liendo kicked off the year with a bang at the SEC Championship in Knoxville, Tennessee. He broke his own Championship Record in the 100 fly twice in a single day! His times of 43.70 in the prelims and an astonishing 43.23 in the final not only secured him the title but also moved him up to fourth all-time in the event. Talk about a powerful start!
NCAA History in the Making
Later in the year, Liendo faced off against Jordan Crooks in the 100 freestyle, a rematch of two of the fastest men in NCAA history. Liendo emerged victorious, claiming his third straight title in the event with a time of 39.99, becoming only the third man to break the 40-second barrier. He also took silver in the 50 free and contributed to Florida's impressive relay performances, including a national title in the 400 medley relay.
World Stage: Silver Lining
Switching to long course, Liendo prepared for the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. He won the men's 50 free and took silver in the 100 fly at the Canadian Trials, securing his spot at the World Championships. At the Worlds, Liendo placed fourth in the 100 fly, just missing his National Record, and also made his mark in the 50 fly, 50 free, and the mixed 4x100 medley relay, where he produced the eighth-fastest 100 fly split in history.
The Hometown Hero: World Record Glory
The highlight of Liendo's year came during the World Cup series in his hometown, Toronto. On the opening night of the final stop, he surged to a new short-course meters world record in the 100 fly, shaving off three hundredths of a second from the previous mark. This achievement earned him a $10,000 World Record bonus and the title of 'crown buster,' taking home an additional $2,500. But that's not all; he also won the 50 free and set a new Canadian record with a time of 20.31.
A Season of Dominance
Liendo's dominance continued as he competed as a senior for the Gators. Just days after his world record, he swam an impressive 18.68 in the 50 free in a dual meet. He also split a remarkable 19.42 on the butterfly leg of the Florida 200 medley relay and clocked a blistering 43.87 in the 100 fly. At the Georgia Invite, Liendo continued to shine, posting his fastest-ever pre-championships time in the 100 fly (43.42) and sharing the nation's leading time in the 50 free (18.40).
As the college season progressed, Liendo maintained his top form, ranking in the top three in the 50 free, 100 free, and 100 fly.
Honorable Mentions
- Ilya Kharun: Kharun had a strong year, finishing second to Liendo in the 100 fly at the NCAA Championships and later becoming a serious contender at the World Cup, going undefeated in the 50 fly and 200 fly across all three stops.
- Finlay Knox: Knox earned USports Championship titles and represented Canada at the World Championships, placing 18th in the 200 IM and 29th in the 100 breast. He also had a successful run at the World Cup, with his highest placing in the 200 IM.
Previous Winners
The Swammy Awards have a rich history, with previous winners including Ilya Kharun (2024), Josh Liendo (2023, 2022, 2021), Finlay Knox (2020), Markus Thormeyer (2019, 2018), Yuri Kisil (2017), and Santo Condorelli (2016, 2015).
Josh Liendo's incredible journey in 2025 solidifies his place as a swimming legend in the making. His record-breaking performances and consistent dominance on both collegiate and international stages make him a true inspiration for swimmers worldwide.
What do you think? Is Liendo's rise to the top well-deserved? Share your thoughts in the comments!
