Irish Olympian Daniel Wiffen Withdraws From World Aquatics Championships Due to Appendicitis

Irish Olympic gold medalist Daniel Wiffen has withdrawn from the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore due to ongoing effects from appendicitis he suffered in June. Despite leading early in the men’s 800m freestyle final, Wiffen faded to finish eighth, well off his Olympic record pace, and later decided to pull out of the remainder of the competition on medical advice. Wiffen expressed gratitude for the support he received and committed to focusing on recovery and regaining full fitness. His withdrawal means he will not defend his 1,500m freestyle title at the championships. Wiffen’s recent performances have been impacted by his health, a stark contrast to his 2024 Olympic triumph where he set Olympic and European records. Meanwhile, fellow Irish swimmer Ellie McCartney qualified for the 200m breaststroke final, marking a significant achievement in her debut world championships.