Missy Franklin

Missy Franklin, born on May 10, 1995, is a celebrated American former competitive swimmer who made waves in the world of aquatic sports. With an impressive tally of five Olympic gold medals, she is renowned for her remarkable achievements in the pool, particularly during her Olympic debut at the 2012 Summer Olympics at the tender age of seventeen. Franklin's prowess was evident as she dominated the women's backstroke events, clinching gold in both the 100-meter and 200-meter backstroke.

Throughout her illustrious career, Franklin held the world record in the 200-meter backstroke (long course) from 2012 until 2019. As a key member of the U.S. national swim team, she also set world records in the 4×100-meter medley relay, both in short course and long course formats. Her exceptional talent earned her numerous accolades, including Swimming World's World Swimmer of the Year and the American Swimmer of the Year award in 2012, along with the prestigious FINA Swimmer of the Year Award in both 2011 and 2012.

In total, Franklin amassed twenty-eight medals in international competitions, comprising seventeen gold, six silver, and five bronze medals across the Olympics, World Championships, short course World Championships, and Pan Pacific Championships. Notably, her eleven gold medals at the World Aquatics Championships stood as a record in women's swimming until it was surpassed by Katie Ledecky in 2017.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to sports, Franklin was honored with the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year award in 2014. After a remarkable journey in competitive swimming, she announced her retirement from the sport in December 2018, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of athletes.