Stars align in Singapore: 26 world titles up for grabs on opening day

For the first time in its history, the World Para Swimming Championships have arrived in Asia — and Singapore is ready to make a splash. From 21 to 27 September, the OCBC Aquatic Centre will transform into the heart of Para swimming, hosting more than 580 athletes from 75 nations in what promises to be a week of record-breaking performances and unforgettable moments.

The event is not just another stop on the sporting calendar. It’s a historic first, bringing the Championships to Asian shores, and it comes at a turning point: the dawn of a new Paralympic cycle on the road to Los Angeles 2028.

Stars of the pool

The roster reads like a who’s who of Para swimming. Brazil’s Gabriel Araujo, known for his charisma and electric swims in Paris, is back to excite crowds. Italy’s Simone Barlaam, fresh from six golds in Manchester 2023, looks to extend his dominance. The United States’ Jessica Long, one of the most decorated Para swimmers of all time, continues her pursuit of greatness.

But for Singapore, the spotlight shines brightest on Yip Pin Xiu. The S2 swimmer, responsible for all seven of the nation’s Paralympic gold medals, is more than an athlete — she’s a symbol of national pride. Competing on home soil, Yip embodies the spirit of this Championships: excellence, resilience, and inspiration.

Image credits: Adam Pretty / Getty Images

Opening day drama

Day one sets the tone with 26 world titles on the line. Italy’s Alberto Amodeo will try to hold on to his crown in the men’s 400m S8, while Jessica Long faces one of her toughest tests yet in the women’s equivalent. Her rivals include Italy’s Xenia Palazzo, the reigning world champion, and Britain’s Alice Tai, who has battled back from injury to remain one of the sport’s fiercest competitors.

China’s Yuyan Jiang, named the 2025 Laureus Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability, also dives into action. After sweeping all seven of her events in Paris, Jiang begins her Singapore campaign in the women’s 100m backstroke S6 — the first of five individual races she will contest.

Elsewhere, the men’s 50m freestyle S11 promises fireworks as Australia’s Rogier Dorsman takes on Japan’s Keiichi Kimura in a clash of champions. In the women’s 100m breaststroke SB9, a new world title is up for grabs, with Dutch contender Lisa Krueger hoping to follow in the footsteps of her retired teammate Chantalle Zijderveld, who now returns to the Championships in a new role as press attaché.

The day’s racing will end in style with the women’s 50m freestyle S10 — a fitting finale to an opening programme packed with star power.

More than medals

While the focus is on medals, the Championships also mark a wider moment for Para sport. Bringing the competition to Singapore signals a growing recognition of Asia’s role in the global Paralympic movement. For athletes, it’s a chance not only to chase records but to inspire the next generation of swimmers across the continent.

As the action unfolds, one thing is clear: Singapore 2025 is more than a championship. It’s a celebration of ability, resilience, and history in the making.

For schedules, results, and ways to watch, visit worldparaswimming.org.