Caeleb Dressel Sets New U.S. Open 100 IM Record
The veteran swimmer clocked a 50.34 in Westmont to secure his spot on the U.S. Short Course World Championship team.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Swimming
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Caeleb Dressel established a new U.S. Open record in the 100-meter individual medley with a time of 50.34 seconds. This performance in Westmont, Illinois, successfully qualified him for the upcoming U.S. Short Course World Championship team.
Why it matters
The result marks a significant return for Dressel to an international U.S. roster, as he continues to demonstrate his competitive form in short-course formats. His performance effectively clears the Beijing A qualification standard by a wide margin.
Dressel finished the race in 50.34 seconds, surpassing the previous U.S. Open record of 50.45 seconds held by Shaine Casas. His race was defined by a 22.37-second opening split and a 27.97-second closing split.
The players
Caeleb Dressel
An American competitive swimmer who holds the world record in the 100-meter individual medley and has previously competed on multiple international rosters.
Shaine Casas
A professional swimmer who previously established the U.S. Open record in the 100-meter individual medley in 2025.
The details
The race held at the FMC Natatorium saw Dressel improve drastically from his 51.98-second time recorded two weeks ago. He also secured the top time in the 50 freestyle during the same session in Illinois.
Timeline
Caeleb Dressel swam the race on October 28, 2026.
The U.S. Short Course World Championship Trials conclude on October 31, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This record-setting performance solidifies Dressel as a primary contributor to the U.S. team following his appearance on the 2024 U.S. international roster. It effectively reestablishes his status as a top contender for upcoming global short-course events.
Dressel's time of 50.34 seconds comfortably exceeds the 52.98-second Beijing A qualification standard. This performance guarantees his entry onto the U.S. Short Course World Championship team.
The takeaway
Dressel's rapid improvement of over one second compared to his performance two weeks ago highlights the critical nature of taper and peak training in elite swimming. Consistent progression throughout the trials is often the deciding factor for athletes aiming to secure spots on major international rosters.
What happens next
The U.S. Short Course World Championship Trials will continue through October 31, 2026, leading into the upcoming international championship competition.
Further reading
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