Kaylee McKeown 100m backstroke

Kaylee McKeown successfully defended her title in the women's 100m backstroke at the Paris 2024 Olympics, clocking an Olympic record time of 57.33 seconds, surpassing her previous record from the Tokyo Games. McKeown triumphed over American rival Regan Smith, who finished with a silver medal at 57.66 seconds, while Katharine Berkoff took bronze with a time of 57.98 seconds. This victory marks McKeown as one of the few Australian women to defend an Olympic gold medal in her event, joining legends like Dawn Fraser. The race was highlighted by the intense rivalry between McKeown and Smith, who previously held the world record before McKeown's latest performance. McKeown's coach, Michael Bohl, has been instrumental in her success, guiding her through a career that includes multiple world championships. Looking ahead, McKeown is set to compete in additional events, aiming to further her medal tally at the Games.