World Aquatics Champs: Coetze Eyes South Africa’s First Podium Finish in Singapore

Rethabile Nyelele29 July , 2025

South African swimming sensation Pieter Coetze is on the verge of making history at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. He powered his way into the men’s 100m backstroke final. His impressive performance in the semifinals on Monday saw him clock 52.29 seconds. This was the third fastest overall, raising hopes of securing South Africa’s first medal at the tournament.

In Medal Contention

Only Hungary’s Hubert Kos (52.21) and Russia’s Kliment Kolesnikov (52.26) posted quicker times than the 21-year-old Coetze. He now finds himself in a strong position ahead of Tuesday’s final, scheduled for 1:56pm South African time.

“I know what I need to do in the final,” said Coetze, the reigning Commonwealth Games champion. “I’ll go back, study the race footage, see where I can make improvements, and come back stronger tomorrow.”

Earlier this month, Coetze made headlines by winning gold at the World Student Games in Germany. He set a new African record of 51.99 seconds in the process. His current form makes him a serious contender for a podium finish in Singapore.

Lone Finalist for Team SA

After two days of intense competition at the championships, Coetze remains the only South African swimmer to advance past the semifinals.

On Sunday’s opening day, both Rebecca Meder and Erin Gallagher progressed through their heats but fell short in the semis. Meder placed 10th in the women’s 200m individual medley with a time of 2:11.05. She was just 0.54 seconds shy of the final eight. Gallagher finished 13th in the women’s 100m butterfly semifinal in 57.48 seconds.

Final Hopes

With the country yet to secure a medal at this year’s global showcase, all eyes will be on Coetze in Tuesday’s final. A podium finish would not only boost South Africa’s medal tally but also mark a significant moment in Coetze’s already promising career.