On the question of the Paris Olympics 2024 participation, the American swimmers are yet to clear the swimming trials. The Lucas Oil Stadium will host the trials contest in mid-June. However, apart from the whooping presence of the participants, the trial episode will witness several swimmers qualify for multiple events. Kate Douglass might be the flag bearer of those swimmers. 

The University of Virginia standout has already qualified for 6 events for the trials and, in most of those, she holds phenomenal records. Meanwhile, among those, her 200m breaststroke holds a distinct recognition. In that event, Kate Douglass might find solace in a Russian champion’s recent announcement bowing out. 

The Paris Olympics 2024 is going to miss a world champion 

When the Russian athletes are already confused regarding their participation in the Paris Olympics 2024, Russian swimmer Evgeniia Chikunova informed about her bowing out from the competition. As reported by matchtv. ru, the 200m breaststroke world record holder refused to accept the neutral status. That led to her dismissal from the Olympics. However, in Evgeniia’s absence might give a boost to Kate Douglass’ chances to bag a gold. 

In Kazan last year, the 20-year-old Russian swimmer claimed the 200m breaststroke world record by clocking, 2:17.55. The timing replaced Tatjana Schoenmaker’s previous record of 2:18.95 made in the Tokyo Olympics final. However, compared to those timings, Kate Douglass’ best 200m breaststroke attempt remains at 2:19.30 made in the 2023 International Team Trials. The American swimmer intensified her chance at the event in several contests where the Russian opponent missed the occasion. 

In Doha World Aquatics 2024, Kate Douglass remained the runner-up, clocking 2:20.91. That was the improved version of her Fukuoka performance. Douglass held the runner-up position there as well. On both those occasions, Evgeniia Chikunova remained away from the pool. But in the world record holder’s absence, Kate Douglass might have to think about other notable ones. 

The crowd of challengers 

Despite Evgeniia taking the backseat, Yulia Yefimova has yet to inform about her choice. In the meantime, the Russian veteran used to hold the national mark in 200m breaststroke with a timing of 2:19.41. Despite her removal from the competition, Evgeniia Chikunova has counted on her motivator’s chance in the Paris Olympics. Rather, stepping ahead, she told about her unfettered support for Yulia in the French capital. So, Kate Douglass might continue to propel herself to defy another Russian challenge. Several others might flaunt themselves to the Tokyo Olympics medalist. 

Dutch swimmer Tes Schouten could be a barrier between Kate Douglass and 200m breaststroke Olympic gold. The swimmer has already defeated the former world champion in Doha this year at the same event. On the other hand, the Olympic champion Tatjana Schoenmaker is yet to call it a day. So, Kate Douglass might have to watch out for her as well. 

Read more: Watch: Olympic Trials Bound Kate Douglass’ Iconic Record Breaking Swim That Had the NCAA Stunned