What is Katie Ledecky's fastest 1,500m freestyle time?

Katie Ledecky's world record in the 1,500m freestyle is 15:20.48, set in May 2018.

How long has Katie Ledecky been undefeated in the 1,500m freestyle?

Katie Ledecky has not lost a 1,500m freestyle race since July 2010, maintaining an unbeaten streak for 16 years.

Where did Katie Ledecky swim her latest record-breaking race?

Katie Ledecky swam her latest record-breaking 1,500m freestyle race at a TYR Pro Series meet in Austin, Texas.

Home / Sports / Ledecky's Second-Fastest Ever: 1,500m Domination Continues

Ledecky's Second-Fastest Ever: 1,500m Domination Continues

15 Jan

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Summary

Ledecky achieved the second-fastest 1,500m freestyle time ever.
She has now won every 1,500m race for 16 years.
Ledecky owns the top 12 and 25 of 26 fastest 1,500m times.

Ledecky's Second-Fastest Ever: 1,500m Domination Continues

American swimming star Katie Ledecky has demonstrated her continued mastery of the 1,500-meter freestyle. Competing in her first race of 2026 at a TYR Pro Series meet in Austin, Texas, Ledecky recorded the second-fastest time in history for the event, clocking in at 15 minutes, 23.21 seconds. This performance places her remarkably close to her own world record of 15:20.48, set in May 2018.

Ledecky's unparalleled consistency in the 1,500-meter freestyle is astonishing; she has not lost a race in this distance since July 2010, a streak now spanning 16 years. Her dominance is further underscored by her record book entries, as she holds the top 12 and 25 of the 26 fastest times ever recorded in the event. Italy's Simona Quadarella is the only other swimmer to feature in the all-time top 26.

While Ledecky's supremacy in the 1,500m remains unchallenged, her performances in shorter distances have seen more competition. However, her recent achievements, including this near-record time, signal her strong position as a favorite for upcoming major events, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.