Rowdy Gaines Calls for Overhaul in USA Swimming Amid Struggle

Rowdy Gaines, a renowned Olympic gold medalist, has expressed concerns over the current state of American swimming. He advocates for leadership changes within USA Swimming after recent struggles, including a lack of a CEO for a year, illnesses among swimmers, and subpar performances at international championships.

Renowned three-time Olympic gold medalist Rowdy Gaines isn't mincing words about the ongoing challenges in American swimming. During a candid interview with The Associated Press, the NBC swimming analyst highlighted numerous setbacks, calling for impactful changes to rejuvenate a struggling USA Swimming program.

The recent world championships in Singapore highlighted fractures within the American team, who grappled with illnesses contracted at a training camp in Thailand. While the team did manage to clinch three gold medals late in the contest, their overall performance lagged behind expectations, bringing Australia's tally closer to theirs.

Gaines attributed part of the problem to USA Swimming's year-long leadership vacuum following the abrupt resignation of former CEO Tim Hinchey. Expressing concern over the absence of effective management, Gaines emphasized the urgent need for strategic transformations in preparation for the upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

(With inputs from agencies.)