China's 12-Year-Old Yu Zidi Reaches World Championships 200m IM Final

At the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, 12-year-old Chinese swimmer Yu Zidi made a remarkable international debut by advancing to the final of the women's 200-meter individual medley, becoming the youngest athlete ever to reach a World Championships final in swimming. Yu recorded a career-best time of 2:10.22 in the semifinals, placing seventh overall despite the 200 IM being considered her weakest event. She also competes in the 400-meter individual medley and 200-meter butterfly, with her performances hinting at significant potential to contend for medals, potentially matching an age record set nearly 90 years ago. Yu expressed surprise and excitement about reaching the final, emphasizing her focus on working hard and enjoying the competitive atmosphere. The competition features other swimming stars like Canadian Olympic champion Summer McIntosh, who is favored to win the 200 IM. Yu's impressive rise from national success to the world stage highlights her extraordinary talent and composure despite her young age.