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In the world of competitive swimming, few athletes have made as significant an impact as Summer McIntosh. At 19 years old, the Toronto native has established herself as a leading figure in the sport. She has earned the esteemed title of Canadian Press Female Athlete of the Year for the third consecutive time. Her performance at the world championships in Singapore stands out, where she claimed four gold medals and set three new world records.
The unprecedented achievements at the world championships
The world championships in Singapore showcased remarkable performances, particularly by swimmer Summer McIntosh. She made history as the second woman to win gold in four individual events at a single world championship. The first was Katie Ledecky, who achieved this in 2015. McIntosh’s path to this milestone began at the national trials in Victoria, where she set world records in the 400-meter freestyle, 200-meter individual medley, and 400-meter individual medley.
The path to achievement
McIntosh highlighted the significance of setting world records during trials as a key factor in boosting her confidence. She emphasized, “Whenever I approach a competition, my mindset is focused on breaking records.” However, the world championships introduced a distinct challenge due to its extended format and the heightened pressure of international competition. Her objective was clear: to secure first place in as many events as possible.
With aspirations for five gold medals, McIntosh’s determination was evident. “Every time I dive into the pool, I aim to win,” she remarked. While it is difficult to achieve this goal in every race, especially at high-stakes events like world championships or the Olympics, she remains steadfast in her commitment to excellence for Canada.
The achievements and recognition
McIntosh’s success in Singapore included wins in the 400-meter and 200-meter individual medleys, the 400-meter freestyle, and the 200-meter butterfly. She also secured a bronze medal in the 800-meter freestyle, finishing just behind Ledecky. McIntosh expressed gratitude for the support from Canada, stating, “The support we received from Canada was incredible, even from afar.” This encouragement motivates her, particularly during the more demanding training sessions.
Recognition and accolades
The annual awards presented by the Canadian Press are determined by votes from editors, writers, and broadcasters nationwide. In 2025, McIntosh’s achievements made a significant impact on voters, as she received 34 out of 53 votes. This performance outshone other esteemed athletes, including rugby player Sophie de Goede and tennis player Victoria Mboko. McIntosh now stands as only the second woman to secure the CP Female Athlete of the Year award three times in succession, a feat previously accomplished by the iconic figure skater Barbara Ann Scott.
Adapting to challenges and future goals
Following her remarkable success at the 2025 Paris Olympics, where she secured three gold medals and one silver, swimmer McIntosh shifted her training base from Florida to France. She is now training under coach Fred Vergnoux as she prepares for upcoming trials and championships. After her achievements in Singapore, McIntosh relocated to Austin, Texas, to join Bob Bowman’s prestigious training group, which features Olympic medallists like Regan Smith and Simone Manuel.
McIntosh described 2025 as a particularly intense year, marked by frequent relocations. “This period proved to be a significant learning experience, filled with demanding training routines,” she stated. She noted that the challenge of the world championships is even more daunting than that of the Olympic Games.
However, her journey faced a setback in October when she fell ill, causing her to miss several World Cup events, including one in her hometown. “It was devastating, especially after the intense training I had undergone,” she stated. Nevertheless, she made a successful return at the U.S. Open in December, where she secured victories in the 400-meter freestyle and 200-meter butterfly.
The implications
With no major competitions scheduled for the following year, McIntosh’s focus shifts toward personal aspirations. “I’m concentrating on breaking my own world records and perhaps setting new ones,” she remarked, showcasing her steadfast commitment to enhancing her performance.
Summer McIntosh: a rising star in competitive swimming
Summer McIntosh exemplifies the spirit of competitive swimming as she advances in her athletic career. Her unwavering commitment to achieving excellence, coupled with her ability to overcome obstacles, positions her as a role model for aspiring athletes. McIntosh’s dedication to the sport not only showcases her talent but also embodies the qualities that define a true champion.