Ledecky

Ledecky, Katie (born June 17, 1997) is an American competitive swimmer who specializes in long-distance freestyle events. She is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished swimmers of her generation, having won multiple Olympic gold medals and world championships. She has set world records in the 400-, 800-, and 1500-meter freestyle events in long-course meters, and has dominated international competition since the early 2010s.

Ledecky was born in the Washington, D.C., area and began swimming at a young age. She rose to national prominence as a teenager, qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics and winning her first Olympic gold in the 800-meter freestyle.

She attended Stanford University, competing for the Stanford Cardinal while continuing to train with the U.S. national team. She has competed in multiple World Championships and Olympic Games, remaining one of the sport's most dominant performers in distance freestyle.

Ledecky’s performances have contributed to the popularity of swimming and have influenced training approaches for long-distance freestyle swimmers. Her career is noted for consistency, longevity, and a distinctive endurance-focused style that has set a high standard for female distance swimming.