A record-breaking swim sets the tone for South Africa’s promising campaign in Singapore, with Pieter Coetzé securing gold.
Singapore (30 July 2025) – It is Day 4 of the World Aquatics Championship, and South Africa is still bringing the heat. Pieter Coetzé delivered a golden moment at the World Aquatics Championships, claiming the country’s first medal in stunning fashion, a gold in the men’s 100m backstroke.
The 21-year-old showcased determination and speed, storming home in the second half of the race to touch the wall in a blistering 51.85 seconds. Here’s what is so incredible about Pieter’s win. Not only did he clinch gold, but he also set a new African record, just 0.25 seconds shy of the world record that is held by Olympic champion Thomas Ceccon of Italy. I mean, beating an Olympic champion is a HUGE deal!
Keep in mind, this is just a few days after he clinched double gold at the World University Games.
Ceccon had to settle for silver with a time of 51.90, while France’s Yohann Ndoye-Brouard took bronze in 51.92. Olympic 200m backstroke champion Hubert Kos of Hungary finished just off the podium in 52.20.
It was a massive win for Pieter and a proud moment for Team South Africa, especially with the 50m and 200m backstroke events still to come for the Pretoria-based swimmer.
But Pieter was not the only South African making a splash in Singapore.
Olivia Nel put in a spirited effort in the women’s 50m backstroke, clocking 28.23 seconds. She finished sixth in her heat and 23rd overall in the global rankings. While she did not advance to the next round, her performance underlined her potential and determination.
Matthew Sates, known for taking on tough multi-stroke events, competed in the men’s 200m individual medley. He battled through all four strokes to post a time of 2:01.80 in an event that demands both technical skill and endurance.
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In the women’s 200m freestyle, Aimee Canny finished sixth in her heat with a time of 1:57.72. That effort placed her 12th overall in the world.
With one gold already secured, and more races still to come, the South African swimmers are showing heart, hunger, and world-class talent on the global stage.
You can follow along by watching on SuperSport or keeping an eye on the Swimming South Africa page here.
Sources: Swimming South Africa
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