Gretchen Walsh, once labeled a “bathtub swimmer” by her critics, has proven them wrong by becoming an Olympian, a world record-holder, and a potential breakout star at the upcoming Paris Games. The term “bathtub swimmer” is often used to suggest that a swimmer excels only in short-course events where they can spend more time underwater. However, Walsh has shown that she is capable of succeeding in both short-course and long-course competitions.
Despite her success in short-course swimming, Walsh needed to believe in herself and prove that she could excel in the 50-meter pool as well. With the support of her coach, Todd DeSorbo, and her sister, Alex, who is also an Olympian, Walsh worked hard to make the necessary adjustments to her training and technique. She focused on getting stronger, improving her freestyle technique, and honing her underwater skills to adapt to the challenges of long-course swimming.
After missing out on the U.S. world-championship roster in 2022, Walsh continued to push herself and set her sights on the U.S. Olympic trials in 2023. In a stunning performance, she broke the world record in the women’s 100-meter butterfly, securing her spot on the Olympic team at the age of 21. This achievement not only silenced her internal critics but also marked a significant milestone in her swimming career.
Walsh’s journey to the Olympics has been a challenging one, filled with setbacks and doubts. However, her perseverance and determination have paid off, and she is now poised to compete in multiple events at the Paris Games. With a heavy workload ahead of her, including the 100 fly, 100 free, 50 free, and potentially the women’s medley relay, Walsh is ready to showcase her talent on the world stage.
As she prepares to make her Olympic debut, Walsh’s story serves as a reminder of the power of self-belief and hard work in overcoming adversity. Her journey from being underestimated as a “bathtub swimmer” to becoming a world-class athlete is a testament to her resilience and dedication. With the support of her coach, teammates, and family, Walsh is ready to shine in Paris and prove that she is more than just a short-course swimmer.
