Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Ledecky Opens 2026 With Second-Fastest 1,500m Freestyle Ever

The 28-year-old’s 15:23.21 in Austin landed less than three seconds off her world record.

Overview

  • The time marked her 10th career swim under 15:30 in the event, a barrier no other woman has broken.
  • She now owns the top 12 times in history and 25 of the 26 fastest performances overall.
  • Her 1,500m victory extended an undefeated run in the distance that dates back to 2010.
  • Brinkleigh Hansen finished second in 16:31.31, with Becca Mann third in 16:35.09 at the US Pro Swim Series meet.
  • Coverage framed the result as reaffirming her status as the leading 1,500m gold favorite as the Los Angeles 2028 cycle begins.