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Kaylee McKeown, born in Redcliffe and raised in Caboolture, will lead Australia’s charge at the 2025 World Swimming Championships in Singapore, anchoring the national team with her world-class backstroke performances.
From Caboolture to the World Stage
Kaylee McKeown was born in Redcliffe and raised in Caboolture, where her passion for swimming first took shape. After years of dedication, she made her Olympic debut in Tokyo, claiming three gold medals and setting a new standard for Australian backstroke.
Now 23, she trains with the USC Spartans and credits her early community support for laying the foundation of her success. At the 2025 national trials in Adelaide, McKeown won the 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke events, all well under the qualifying times. Her performance confirmed her spot at the top of Australia’s team for the World Championships.
A Dramatic Start to the Trials
Her rise from local lanes to global headlines continues as she prepares to defend three world titles this July. McKeown’s selection wasn’t without drama, as she was initially disqualified in the 50m backstroke heats for a false start.
A review overturned the decision, confirming she had reacted to movement near the blocks. She bounced back to win the final in 27.33 seconds, well under the 27.74 qualifying time.
McKeown also claimed victories in the 100m and 200m backstroke, showcasing her consistency across all distances. She still holds world records in the 50m and 200m backstroke and remains one of the few to sweep all three events at a single World Championships.
Eyes on Singapore and Beyond
The 2025 World Swimming Championships will be held in Singapore from 27 July to 3 August. McKeown enters as the reigning world champion in the 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke events. Her focus will be on defending those titles while sharpening her form ahead of the Paris Olympics.
Under coach Michael Bohl, she continues to train for speed and technique across all backstroke distances. The team will stage in Darwin before heading to Singapore, with McKeown playing a key leadership role in Australia’s campaign.
Community Pride Runs Deep
McKeown’s success continues to inspire pride across Moreton Bay, with both Redcliffe and Caboolture closely tied to her story. Local coaches and swim clubs still follow her progress, knowing she began in the same community pools young swimmers use today.
Though she now trains with a national high-performance squad, McKeown often credits her hometown roots for shaping her early journey. Her achievements highlight the depth of regional talent in Australia. They also remind young athletes that world-class careers can start in local lanes.
Published 25-June-2025
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