The 2026 Commonwealth Games are fast approaching, and the women's backstroke events are shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle, especially after the unexpected withdrawal of world champion and record holder Kaylee McKeown due to glandular fever. This development has left a void at the top, creating an opportunity for new contenders to emerge and challenge for the podium spots.
The 50 Backstroke: A Battle of Speed
In the 50-meter backstroke, the absence of McKeown has opened the door for a new champion. Canada's Kylie Masse, a returning medalist from the 2022 Games, is a strong contender. She set the Commonwealth Games record at 27.31 and has been consistently faster, with a season best of 27.35. Her performance at the 2025 Pro Swim Series in Fort Lauderdale, where she set a new personal best of 27.13, showcases her exceptional speed. However, the competition is fierce, with Australia's Iona Anderson, who recently broke her lifetime best with a time of 27.33, and Alexandria Perkins, who could surprise with her 27.64 from the New South Wales State Championships.
England's Lauren Cox, with a season best of 27.39 and a lifetime best of 27.15, adds another layer of intrigue. South Africa's Jessica Thompson and Olivia Nel, both under 28 seconds, and Madison Kryger, with a lifetime best of 28.27, complete the field. In my opinion, the race for gold in the 50 backstroke is a toss-up between Masse and Anderson, with Cox and Perkins as dark horses.
The 100 Backstroke: A Race of Endurance
The 100-meter backstroke is where McKeown's absence is felt most acutely. Kylie Masse, the silver medalist in 2022, is back but has struggled to break 58 seconds this season. Iona Anderson, the top swimmer in the world this year with a time of 58.60, is a strong favorite. However, the field is deep, with Australia's Mollie O'Callaghan, Canada's Madison Kryger, and England's Lauren Cox all capable of challenging for medals. Anderson's lifetime best of 58.43 and Masse's 57.70 make this a highly competitive event.
The 200 Backstroke: A Test of Endurance
In the 200-meter backstroke, the focus shifts to endurance. Kylie Masse, the 2024 Olympic bronze medalist, is a returning medalist but has not raced the event since her medal-winning performance. Katie Shanahan, the bronze medalist in 2022, is a consistent performer with a season best of 2:08.85. Australia's Iona Anderson and Hannah Fredericks, both with lifetime bests under 2:09, are strong contenders. Canada's Madison Kryger, with a lifetime best of 2:08.17, adds depth to the Canadian team. In my opinion, the battle for gold in the 200 backstroke will be between Anderson and Shanahan, with Kryger and Fredericks as potential spoilers.
As the Commonwealth Games approach, the women's backstroke events promise to be a thrilling display of speed, endurance, and talent. The absence of Kaylee McKeown has created an opportunity for new stars to emerge, and the competition is sure to be fierce. From the sprinting 50-meter race to the endurance test of the 200-meter event, the backstroke competitions will be a highlight of the Games, offering spectators a chance to witness the rise of new champions and the continued dominance of established stars.
