Marchand Sets 200 IM Record, Wins Gold in Singapore

French swimmer Léon Marchand set a new 200m individual medley world record at the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, clocking 1:52.69 in the semifinals and surpassing Ryan Lochte's 2011 mark. Marchand went on to win gold in the 200m IM final with a time of 1:53.68, the second-fastest ever, ahead of American Shaine Casas and Hungary’s Hubert Kos. At 23, Marchand has now won his third consecutive world title in this event and delivered France's first gold of the championships. He attributed his achievements to a strategic focus on fewer events and planned changes to his training. Marchand's performances solidify his place among swimming’s elite and set a new standard in medley swimming. He remains a top contender for further medals, particularly in the 400m IM later in the meet.