Simone Manuel is an accomplished American professional swimmer specializing in freestyle events, whose career has been marked by groundbreaking achievements and a commitment to excellence. At the 2016 Rio Olympics, she made history by becoming the first Black American woman to win an individual Olympic gold in swimming, securing gold in the 100-meter freestyle and the 4×100-meter medley relay, alongside two silver medals. Her performance not only set an Olympic record but also an American record, showcasing her exceptional talent on the world stage.
Manuel’s collegiate career at Stanford University from 2014 to 2018 was equally impressive. As a member of the Stanford Cardinal women’s swimming team, she broke multiple school records in the 50-, 100-, and 200-yard freestyle events. She became a six-time individual NCAA champion and was recognized with the Honda Sports Award as the nation’s best female swimmer, solidifying her status as one of the top athletes in collegiate swimming.
Turning professional in July 2018, Manuel signed with TYR Sport, Inc., marking a significant step in her career. She has since continued to excel, winning multiple medals at the World Aquatics Championships, including four golds in 2019, making her the first female American swimmer to win both the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle events at a single meet. Her achievements have earned her accolades, including the 2019 “Female Athlete of the Year” award at the Golden Goggles Awards.
Beyond her competitive success, Manuel is dedicated to promoting inclusion in swimming. She serves as an ambassador for the Make A Splash initiative, which aims to provide swimming education to underserved communities. Her partnership with LeBron James’ Promise School exemplifies her commitment to extending opportunities in aquatics education. Through her groundbreaking career and advocacy, Simone Manuel continues to inspire future generations of swimmers.
