Brazilian swimming sensation Stephanie Balduccini made headlines this weekend by breaking the Brazilian national record in the women’s 100m freestyle during the 2024 Brazilian Swimming Trials in Recife, clocking a time of 53.68 seconds.
With this performance, Balduccini not only secured her place at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, but also positioned herself among the fastest swimmers in the world this season.
A Record-Breaking Swim Under Pressure
Facing intense competition and the weight of expectations, Balduccini delivered a near-perfect race:
- An explosive start and fast underwater phase
- Smooth, powerful strokes maintaining high velocity at the turn
- A strong final 25 meters where she pulled away from her competitors
Her time of 53.68 seconds broke the previous Brazilian record of 54.03 seconds, set by Larissa Oliveira in 2016.
After the race, an emotional Stephanie said:
“This record was a dream. But Paris is my true goal. I’m proud, I’m ready, and I’m hungrier than ever.”
From Tokyo Prodigy to Paris Contender
At just 18 years old, Balduccini is already a veteran of major competitions. She made her Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020 at the age of 16, being the youngest athlete in Brazil’s delegation, and helped Brazil’s relay teams achieve historic results.
Since then, she has:
- Moved to the United States to train under elite coaching at the University of Michigan
- Improved her strength, underwater work, and sprint finishes
- Climbed the world rankings in both the 100m and 200m freestyle events
Coach Fernando Vanzella praised her growth:
“Stephanie is no longer just potential — she’s a world-class swimmer ready to fight for finals, and maybe more, in Paris.”
Brazil’s Swimming Momentum Heading into Paris
Stephanie’s record is part of a larger wave of positive results for Brazilian swimming:
- Guilherme Costa qualified early in the 400m and 800m freestyle
- Beatriz Dizotti broke South American records in distance freestyle events
- Brazil’s men’s 4x100m relay team ranks among the top five in the world
The Brazilian Swimming Confederation (CBDA) has increased investment in:
- Altitude training camps
- Expanded sports science support for recovery and race analytics
- Partnerships with U.S. and European training bases for competition readiness
Eyes on Paris: Goals and Expectations
Balduccini will swim:
- 100m freestyle (individual)
- 200m freestyle (individual)
- 4x100m freestyle relay
- 4x200m freestyle relay
Her goal is clear: qualify for individual finals and help Brazil’s women’s relays reach the podium — a historic achievement if realized.
Stephanie will now prepare with:
- Participation in the Mare Nostrum Swim Tour across Europe
- Race simulations focused on pacing and start/turn explosiveness
- Mental preparation to handle Olympic pressures
Inspiration Beyond the Pool
Stephanie’s rise is inspiring a new generation of young Brazilian swimmers, particularly girls who see her as proof that global success is within reach.
She frequently shares training insights, motivational messages, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of her journey on social media, connecting with fans and aspiring athletes alike.
Her message is simple:
“Believe in your work, trust your journey, and swim with your heart.”
Conclusion: Brazil’s New Sprint Queen
Stephanie Balduccini’s national record is not just a moment of triumph — it’s a sign that Brazil’s swimming future is fast, fearless, and full of promise.
In Paris, the world will watch as Stephanie brings her speed, spirit, and dreams to the biggest stage of all.