Get ready for an incredible journey as we celebrate the 2025 Swammy Awards and shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of Canadian male swimmer Josh Liendo!
A Year of Triumphs
2025 was a breakthrough year for Liendo, who dominated both collegiate and international stages. From rewriting records at the SEC Championship to setting a short-course world record in the 100-meter butterfly in his home country, Liendo's talent and determination knew no bounds.
Record-Breaking Beginnings
Liendo's year started with a bang at the SEC Championship in Knoxville, Tenn. He broke his own Championship Record in the 100 fly twice in one day, posting an incredible time of 43.23 in the final. This performance not only secured his third consecutive SEC 100 fly title but also moved him up to fourth all-time in this event.
But here's where it gets controversial... Liendo's record-breaking performance sparked a thrilling rivalry with Jordan Crooks of Tennessee. In the 100 freestyle, they tied at 40.15, setting the stage for an epic rematch between two of the fastest men in NCAA history.
Medley Magic
Liendo's versatility was on full display as he added a silver medal in the 50 free and contributed to Florida's 800 free relay meet record. His impact was felt most notably in the 400 medley relay, where he clocked the fastest fly split ever, nearly seven-tenths faster than the next-best split, helping Florida break the NCAA record.
NCAA Championships: Defending the Title
At the Men's NCAA Championships, Liendo continued his dominance. He defended his 100 fly title, shaving off a hundredth of a second from his lifetime best, bringing him tantalizingly close to Caeleb Dressel's NCAA record. In the highly anticipated rematch with Crooks in the 100 free, Liendo emerged victorious, becoming only the third man to break the 40-second barrier, claiming his third straight title in the event.
World Stage: Silver Lining
Liendo's transition to long-course swimming paid dividends as he prepared for the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. He won the men's 50 free and was the runner-up 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 set at the previous year's Olympics. He also made his mark in the mixed 4x100 medley relay, producing the eighth-fastest 100 fly split in history and helping Canada win bronze.
Hometown Heroics
The highlight of Liendo's year came during the World Cup series in Toronto, his hometown. On the opening night of the final stop, Liendo surged to a new short-course meters world record in the 100 fly, clipping three hundredths of a second off the previous mark and earning his first career world record. This win not only earned him a $10,000 bonus but also eliminated Noe Ponti's chance at a triple crown, solidifying Liendo's status as a force to be reckoned with.
And this is the part most people miss... Liendo's performance in the 100 fly was almost two seconds faster than any other time during the series, showcasing his incredible form and determination.
Continuing the Legacy
Now, as a senior with the Gators, Liendo is back in championship form. Just days after his world record, he fired an impressive 18.68 50 free in a dual meet. His performance at the Georgia Invite further solidified his status as a top contender, with his fastest-ever pre-championships 100 fly time making him the eighth-fastest in history.
Heading into the final half of the college season, Liendo sits in the top three in the 50 free, 100 free, and 100 fly, a testament to his consistent excellence.
Honorable Mentions
- Ilya Kharun: Kharun opened his 2025 with a strong performance at the NCAA Championships, finishing runner-up to Liendo in the 100 fly. He continued his success at the World Championships, placing third in the 100 fly, and later became a serious contender at the World Cup, going undefeated in the 50 fly and 200 fly across all three stops.
- Finlay Knox: Knox dominated at the USports Championships, winning the 200 IM, 50 back, and 200 fly. He carried this momentum into the summer, winning the 200 IM at the Canadian Swimming Trials. Knox represented Canada at the World Championships and later raced at all three World Cup stops, with his highest placing in Westmont, where he finished second in the 200 IM.
Previous Winners
The 2025 Swammy Awards for Canadian Male Swimmer of the Year continue a prestigious lineage, 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 remarkable journey in 2025 is a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication. His achievements have not only inspired a nation but have also solidified his place among the swimming greats. As we celebrate his success, we can't help but wonder: What new records will he break in the years to come? Will he continue to dominate the swimming world? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
