Kaylene Corbett claimed bronze in China as Pieter Coetzé won gold and Jessica Thompson broke records at home, showcasing a great week of South African swimming talent.
Global (23 March 2026) – It’s been a strong showing for Swimming South Africa, with standout performances both on the international stage and back home and Kaylene Corbett, Pieter Coetzé and Jessica Thompson are is right at the centre of it.
Experienced breaststroke swimmer, Kaylene Corbett delivered a brilliant performance to secure a bronze medal in the 50m breaststroke on the opening day of the China Swimming Open. In a high-intensity final, Corbett touched the wall in 31.59 seconds, edging out American swimmer Alex Walsh by just 0.03 seconds in a thrilling finish.
The race itself was electric, headlined by China’s Tang Qianting, who stormed to gold in a blistering 29.44. But behind that dominant performance, Corbett showed exactly why she remains one of South Africa’s best swimmers. Keeping her composure under pressure to secure a well-earned podium spot.
Not forgetting Pieter Coetzé, who delivered a stunning performance to claim gold in the 50m backstroke, stopping the clock at 24.83 seconds. This also secures his ticket to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Back home, South African swimming was also making headlines. On the very same week, 18-year-old Jessica Thompson made waves of her own, breaking both the South African and African records in the women’s 50m backstroke at the SA National Youth Championships in Gqeberha.
Together, these performances paint an exciting picture for what’s to come this year. This week alone proves that there’s plenty more to look forward to in the pool for Team South Africa.
Sources: Swimming South Africa
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