Phelps, Lochte Criticize US Performance at 2025 Worlds

At the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, Team USA's swimming performance has come under sharp criticism from legendary Olympians Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte, who both shared a meme likening the state of USA Swimming to a funeral, signaling deep disappointment with the team's results. The U.S. team, hampered by a bout of acute gastroenteritis that affected several athletes, has secured fewer gold medals than swimming powerhouses China and Australia, sparking concerns ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Despite leading the overall medal count, the number of golds won by Team USA has been notably low compared to past performances, continuing a trend of decline since the Paris Olympics. Phelps questioned whether this underperformance serves as a necessary wake-up call for USA Swimming, while Lochte suggested it could be a 'fresh start.' Compounding the team's struggles are ongoing organizational issues, including leadership instability following the resignation of USA Swimming's CEO. Amid these developments, the global swimming community is also mourning the loss of Linda McGill, the pioneering Australian Olympian and record-setting English Channel swimmer, who passed away at 79 after a battle with emphysema.