Ageless Athletes: Highlighting a Quartet of Veterans Who Are Still Speeding Up
“Age is just a number.” It’s a phrase we hear all the time in the real world, as many try to convince themselves of eternal youth. But in a sport like swimming, the phrase generally couldn’t be farther from the truth. A study by Sian V. Allen et al determined swimmers reach top competitive performance generally between the ages of 22 and 26.
It’s a quick plateau, with many competitors over the years struggling to adjust to the reality. And yet, we occasionally are offered defiance of the mold. At 28 years old, Katie Ledecky recently shattered expectations, breaking her first long course world record in seven years with an 8:04.12 effort in the 800 freestyle. The performance was a reminder of Ledecky’s force on the road to the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. But she isn’t the only current athlete who is excelling in her late 20s and beyond. Ahead of the World Championships this summer, here’s a look at some veterans who continue to flourish beyond what should have been their peak.
Kylie Masse
Similar to Ledecky, one word could be used to describe Kylie Masse’s career: consistency. Masse broke out back in 2016, earning bronze in a crowded 100 backstroke field at the Rio Olympics. The 29-year-old has been a constant in the 100 and 200 back since, collecting three more solo Olympic medals and five medals at the World Championships.
The Canadian has been noncommittal on competing in 2028, but her recent activity suggests she can maintain her prominence. Masse broke the Canadian record in the 50 backstroke at the TYR Pro Series in Fort Lauderdale, going 27.13, and with the 50-meter stroke events added to the 2028 Olympic program, an additional opportunity certainly awaits if Masse desires.
Duncan Scott
In an age where specialization has become more common, Duncan Scott has been defined by versatility. It’s even more impressive to see the Brit flash his multi-event skill at 28 years old. In the early portion of this season, Scott has contested eight different events, winning off events in Dubai, Edinburgh, and McCullagh.
The range of events and strokes Scott has competed in should only aid his 200 IM, a calling card of the veteran, along with the 200 freestyle. The eight-time Olympic medalist seems poised to enhance his portfolio, as he has already been 1:56.44 in the 200 IM in 2025, a complement to a 1:45.08 marker in the 200 free.
Zhang Yufei
At 27 years old, Zhang Yufei does not have anything left to prove. She is an Olympic champion and the Chinese star has been a global factor across several events – most notably the 50 freestyle and butterfly disciplines. At the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, Zhang earned individual podium finishes in the 50 free, 100 butterfly and 200 fly.
Zhang is expected to race at the upcoming Chinese Nationals, which will select the athletes to race at the World Champs in Singapore. Although she has not been active on the competition scene, Zhang is less than a year removed from being a major player on the international stage and continuing to contend seems likely for Zhang.
Cam McEvoy
During his younger years, Cam McEvoy was best known for his skill in the 100 freestyle and 200 freestyle. Now, though, the 31-year-old is the premier 50 freestyler in the world. McEvoy is the reigning Olympic champion in the 50 free and continues to speed up, despite moving into his 30s. The Aussie is always seeking ways to enhance his status and he recently spoke of his chase for a sub-21 swim in the 50 free.