Daijiworld Media Network - Shenzhen
Shenzhen, Mar 21: Australian swimmer Cameron McEvoy created history by breaking the long-standing men’s 50-metre freestyle world record at the China Open.
The 31-year-old clocked 20.88 seconds, surpassing the previous record of 20.91 seconds set by Brazil’s César Cielo in 2009.
McEvoy’s feat ended a 17-year wait for a new record in the event, one of swimming’s most competitive sprint disciplines.
Cielo’s record had been achieved during the controversial “super suit” era, when high-tech swimsuits enhanced buoyancy and reduced drag. The suits led to a surge in record-breaking performances before being banned in 2010.
McEvoy’s achievement is being hailed as particularly significant as it comes well after the ban, under stricter regulations, underscoring the magnitude of his performance.