Swimming fans were treated to numerous amazing performances at the Paris Olympics. On July 29, the world witnessed complete Australian dominance in the women’s 200m freestyle finals, led by Mollie O’Callaghan and her teammate Ariarne Titmus. This was a proud moment for Team Australia, and supporters were thrilled to see the 1-2 finish.
As the race began, Hong Kong’s Siobhan Bernadette Haughey took an early lead. After the first 100 meters, she was followed closely by Australia’s Ariarne Titmus, setting up a battle for the gold medal.
However, in the final 50 meters, O’Callaghan surged into contention, creating a three-way fight for first place. The young Australian opened up a significant gap and maintained it to the finish, with her teammate doing the same.
O’Callaghan won the event with an Olympic record time of 1:53.27, earning her first individual Olympic gold medal. Titmus finished second in 1:53.81, while Haughey took bronze in 1:55.29.
Dominant duo in the 200m Freestyle ♀️
Mollie O’Callaghan wins her first individual Olympic gold and sets a new Olympic Record in 1:53.27
World Record holder Ariarne Titmus wins silver in 1:53.81 #AllezAUS | @swimmingaus | @dolphinsaus pic.twitter.com/MbMz4SxbEn
— AUS Olympic Team (@AUSOlympicTeam) July 29, 2024
The Aussies’ dominance made the medal ceremony an emotional moment for both the competitors and the Australian supporters in the grandstand. The excitement spread to social media, where fans celebrated when the AUS Olympic Team announced this accomplishment.
Australian swimmers bringing the Olympic glory to the fans
It’s quite rare to see a 1-2 finish on the sport’s biggest stage. While O’Callaghan defeated defending champion Titmus, there was no animosity between the two Australians as they had secured the best possible outcome for their country in their event.
Apart from praising their performances, many internet users appreciated the sportsmanship demonstrated by both athletes.
A great race great sportsmanship Australia is proud.
— Get Real Now (@GetRealNowAus) July 29, 2024
They are currently at the pinnacle of the sport, and this fan simply adores them.
Congratulations for the two of our best swimmers
— Chris Smith (@ChrisSm77230567) July 29, 2024
This user had the same reaction as many other Australian fans.
CongratulationsChampions
@SwimmingAUS #OlympicGames #Paris2024
— Isabella Koldras (@IsabellaKoldras) July 29, 2024
After securing the 1-2 finish, both swimmers hugged each other, which many people noticed.
True #champions in competition and how they conducted themselves in magnanimity when winning gold and silver.
— Prof S Dov Bachmann (@SdBachman) July 30, 2024
This fan is still in shock at Team Australia’s incredible achievement.
Simply marvellous
— Billy Anderson (@BillyAn98137944) July 30, 2024
Currently, Team Australia is in fourth place overall with nine Olympic medals, consisting of five golds and four silvers. With numerous events still to come at the Paris Olympics, this tally demonstrates the impressive development of Australian athletes in the years leading up to this coveted event.