Isabelle Stadden breaks into all-time backstroke greats with big lifetime best
Isabelle Stadden achieved a major breakthrough by winning the 200m backstroke at the Fort Lauderdale Open with a time of 2:04.37, marking a personal best by 1.54 seconds. She moved into fourth place on the all-time performers list, surpassing previous domestic rivals including Regan Smith. Despite consistent performances, Stadden has yet to qualify for a major international team in a 50-meter pool and will aim for the 2027 World Championships.
- ▪Isabelle Stadden swam a 2:04.37 in the 200m backstroke, lowering her personal best by 1.54 seconds.
- ▪She became the fourth-fastest performer in history in the event, behind only Kaylee McKeown, Regan Smith, and Missy Franklin.
- ▪Stadden defeated Regan Smith, who recorded a time of 2:06.38 in the same race.
- ▪She has not yet made a U.S. team for a major international meet in a long-course pool.
- ▪The team for the 2026 Pan Pacific Championships was determined in 2025, making 2027 a key target for Stadden.
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