Katie Ledecky Clinches 800m World Gold, Foils Summer McIntosh's Record Bid

American Katie Ledecky won her 23rd world title and seventh gold medal in Singapore, triumphing in the women's 800m freestyle at the world championships. She finished ahead of Lani Pallister and Summer McIntosh.

Ledecky, 28, set a championship record with a time of 8 minutes and 05:62 seconds. Pallister took silver with a time of 8:05.98, while McIntosh secured third place in 8:07.29.

Ledecky expressed admiration for her competitors, acknowledging the fast-paced race. She also reflected on her career stage and the honor of competing against the world's best swimmers.

In addition to her 800m gold, Ledecky also won gold in the 1,500m and bronze in the 400m events. She is nearing Michael Phelps' record of 26 world championships titles.

McIntosh's hopes of matching Phelps' record of five individual titles at a single world championship were dashed by Ledecky's victory. Despite her defeat, McIntosh remained focused on upcoming events and viewed the experience as a valuable learning opportunity.

The United States team set a world record in the mixed 4x100 meters freestyle relay, with Jack Alexy, Patrick Sammon, Kate Douglass, and Torri Huske clocking 3:18.48. Kaylee McKeown also excelled, winning the 200m backstroke gold and solidifying her status as a dominant backstroke swimmer.