Chad le Clos Sets Commonwealth Games Record with 19th Medal

Chad le Clos, the renowned South African swimmer, has etched his name in the annals of Commonwealth Games history by becoming the most decorated male athlete ever, following his remarkable achievement of winning a bronze medal in the men’s 4×100-metre freestyle relay. This milestone marks his 19th medal at the Commonwealth Games, surpassing the previous record held by Australian shooter Phil Adams and English shooter Mick Gault. The 34-year-old athlete expressed his mixed emotions after the race, stating, "I shouldn’t be crying at bronze, I should be crying at gold, but honestly this means the world," reflecting on the significance of this achievement in his illustrious career. Le Clos’s medal tally now stands at an impressive seven golds, four silvers, and eight bronzes, showcasing his dominance in the pool over the years.

As the competition continues at the Tollcross pool, le Clos remains a formidable presence, with upcoming events in the 50-metre and 100-metre butterfly races on his schedule. His journey in the Commonwealth Games began back in 2010 when he made his debut in New Delhi at the tender age of 18, where he secured five medals. This current edition marks his fifth appearance at the Commonwealth Games, and he has consistently proven to be a force to be reckoned with, not only in Commonwealth competitions but also on the global stage. Throughout his career, le Clos has amassed an impressive collection of accolades, including four Olympic medals, one of which is gold, and a staggering 16 world titles, primarily in the butterfly category.