Katharine Berkoff Breaks 50m Backstroke World Record

Katharine Berkoff shattered the short course world record in the 50 meter backstroke on October 29, ending Regan Smith's hold on the mark. The swimmer from Missoula, Montana, posted a time of 25.21 seconds during the USA Swimming World Short Course Championship trials in Westmont, Illinois.

NBC broadcast team members confirmed the shift in power in real time. Play-by-play announcer Jason Knapp called the performance exactly as advertised, noting that the new record took the title away from Smith. Color commentator Rowdy Gaines agreed, stating that the record was due based on Berkoff's recent form in both short course and long course events.

Berkoff expressed satisfaction with her execution after the race. She told NBC Sports that she felt she hit her technical details better than in her morning heat. The swimmer described her physical state as really strong, adding that she was super happy with the result.

The 25-year-old has built a deep medal collection across her career. Her resume includes 13 gold medals, seven silver medals, and seven bronze medals. Her podium finishes span multiple major competitions. She captured a gold medal in the 4x100 meter medley and a bronze in the 100 meter backstroke at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Her achievements also include seven golds, six silvers, and five bronzes at World Championships. She added three golds at the Pan Pacific Championships, two golds at the Summer Universiade, and a silver and bronze at World Junior Championships. The 2028 Summer Olympics are scheduled to take place in Los Angeles from July 14 to 30.

The new record stands as the fastest short course 50 meter backstroke in history. Berkoff's time of 25.21 seconds now serves as the benchmark for the event leading up to the 2028 Games.