Mollie O'Callaghan is being tipped to replace Kaylee McKeown in the 100m backstroke for the upcoming Commonwealth Games after McKeown withdrew with glandular fever, a move that could put O'Callaghan on the podium.
What sparked the backstroke opening?
Kaylee McKeown, the four‑time Olympic champion, pulled out of both the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Pan Pacs in Irvine due to illness. Her absence leaves a rare vacancy in Australia’s strongest backstroke line‑up. The decision was confirmed in early June, just weeks before the Games, and it instantly opened the door for other Australian swimmers.
How does Mollie O'Callaghan fit the bill?
O'Callaghan posted a 57.88 seconds at the 2024 Olympic Trials – the sixth‑fastest time ever recorded in the event. She chose to skip the 100m backstroke at the Trials to focus on the 100m and 200m freestyle, but the speed she demonstrated suggests she could contend for gold if she adds the race to her schedule. Her versatility already sees her qualified for the 100m and 200m freestyle and a mainstay in all three Australian relay teams.
Who are the other contenders?
Iona Anderson (58.60) and Hannah Fredericks (59.79) also qualified for the 100m backstroke at the Trials. Anderson, the 2024 World Championships silver medallist, finished fifth in the event at the Paris Olympics after stepping in for O'Callaghan, while Fredericks placed sixth in the same trials. Jenna Forrester, who was fourth at the Trials, could join the 200m backstroke line‑up alongside Anderson and Fredericks.
What does this mean for Australia’s medal chances?
If O'Callaghan adds the 100m backstroke on Day Two of the Glasgow program, she would race a heat and semifinal the same day she swims the 200m freestyle heat and final. The 100m backstroke final would then sit on Day Three, alongside the 100m freestyle heat and semifinal. The packed schedule is demanding, but the potential reward is a gold medal in a race where Australia has historically dominated.
The backstroke vacancy also reshapes the 4×100m medley relay. Anderson is likely to take the backstroke leg, giving the quartet a realistic shot at the top podium spot. O'Callaghan’s presence in the freestyle relays already strengthens Australia’s chances across the board.
What’s the next step for O'Callaghan?
The decision now rests with O'Callaghan and her coach Dean Boxall. Adding the 100m backstroke would mean a grueling double‑day workload, but the athlete’s recent performances suggest she can handle it. The Australian swimming federation will need to confirm the entry list before the Games commence on 28 July.
The backstroke opening could become a defining moment in O'Callaghan’s career, turning a specialist freestyle star into a multi‑event medal contender at one of sport’s biggest stages.