Get ready to dive into the most thrilling swims of 2025, because this year’s pool action was nothing short of extraordinary! But here’s where it gets controversial—not everyone will agree with our rankings, and that’s exactly why you’ll want to keep reading. For the second consecutive year, we’ve split the top 10 races into yards and meters, ensuring every stroke gets the spotlight it deserves. This is the yards edition, showcasing the fastest and most jaw-dropping performances in SCY from both NCAA and USA Swimming meets. And let’s be clear—this isn’t just about breaking records; it’s about the stories, the comebacks, and the sheer determination that made these swims unforgettable.
And this is the part most people miss—this list isn’t just about speed; it’s about the moments that left us breathless. From high school phenoms to college legends, 2025 delivered a tidal wave of talent. But narrowing down the top 10? That was no easy feat. This list is entirely subjective, so feel free to dive into the comments and share your own rankings. Let’s kick things off with some Honorable Mentions that just missed the cut:
- Maximus Williamson shattered records in the 200 Freestyle at the 2025 UIL Texas 6A State Championships. His 1:30.46 final swim wasn’t just a new high school record—it was a statement. This swim would’ve dominated the ACC Championships and finished 4th at NCAAs, proving he’s a force to be reckoned with.
- UVA Women’s 800 Freestyle Relay, led by Gretchen Walsh, broke the NCAA record at the ACC Championships. Walsh’s 1:39.34 leadoff was the 2nd fastest 200 freestyle in history, and the team’s combined effort left Stanford’s former record in the dust.
- Luke Hobson secured his 3rd straight NCAA title in the 200 Freestyle, setting a new NCAA record of 1:28.33. With four of the top five swims in history, Hobson is rewriting the record books.
- Gretchen Walsh struck again in the 100 Freestyle at NCAAs, shaving over a tenth off her own NCAA record with a 44.71. She’s the only woman to ever dip under 45 seconds in this event—a true trailblazer.
- Caroline Bricker stunned everyone in the 400 IM at NCAAs, clocking 3:57.36 for her first individual title. Her journey from a 4:09.53 freshman to NCAA champion is nothing short of inspiring.
Now, let’s dive into the Top 10, starting with #10 and swimming our way to the ultimate #1:
10. Will Modglin’s 100 Backstroke at the 2025 Texas Hall of Fame Invite was a game-changer. His 43.26 American Record swim positioned him as the top American backstroker—a role the U.S. desperately needed to fill.
9. Rylee Erisman’s 200 Freestyle at the Winter Juniors East Championships was mind-boggling. At just 16, she smashed Katie Ledecky’s NAG record with a 1:40.93, becoming the 16th fastest performer in history.
8. Men’s 100 Free Final at the SEC Championships between Jordan Crooks and Josh Liendo was electric. Their dead heat at 40.45 broke the SEC record and set the stage for an even bigger showdown at NCAAs.
7. Luke Mijatovic’s 1000 Freestyle at a club meet in California was a masterclass in endurance. His 8:37.01 swim shattered his own NAG record and marked the 5th fastest performance in history.
6. Hubert Kos’s 200 Backstroke at NCAAs was a record-breaker. His 1:34.21 swim took over a second off the NCAA record, securing his first NCAA title in the event.
5. Luca Urlando’s 200 Fly at NCAAs was a triumph. His 1:36.43 swim not only broke his own NCAA record but also earned him his first NCAA title—a comeback story for the ages.
4. Jordan Crooks’s 100 Freestyle at NCAAs was historic. His 39.83 prelims swim broke Caeleb Dressel’s NCAA record, and while Josh Liendo took the title, Crooks’s performance was unforgettable.
3. Men’s 800 Freestyle Relay at NCAAs between Texas and Cal was a battle for the ages. Cal’s 5:59.75 swim made them the first team to break 6:00, edging out Texas in a thrilling race.
2. Gretchen Walsh’s 100 Butterfly at NCAAs was groundbreaking. Her 46.97 swim made her the first woman under 47 seconds, solidifying her status as a legend.
1. Katie Ledecky’s 1650 Freestyle at the Katie Ledecky Invitational was the swim of the year. Her 14:59.62 made her the first woman to break 15 minutes, further cementing her GOAT status.
But here’s the real question: Did we get it right? Which swim do you think deserves the top spot? And who’s poised to dominate in 2026? Let the debate begin in the comments!
