Editorial content for the 2023 World Aquatics Championships is sponsored by FINIS, a longtime partner of Swimming World and leading innovator of suits, goggles and equipment. World Championships: Final of 50 Butterfly Will Be Special Moment For Rikako Ikee There are several enticing storyline on the Day Seven slate at the World Championships. The latest backstroke duel between Kaylee McKeown and Regan Smith. Katie Ledecky’s pursuit of a sixth consecutive world title in the 800 freestyle. The reinvention of Cam McEvoy as the current fastest man in water. However, the presence of Japan’s Rikako Ikee in the final of the 50 butterfly might take the No. 1 spot. In 2019, Ikee was diagnosed with Leukemia. Her status as one of the world’s premier swimmers meant nothing. The teenager fighting for her life, and defeating a deadly disease, was all that mattered. Ultimately, Ikee emerged victorious. Her positivity and will shined. The medical professionals provided the best care. The aquatic community rallied around her. Emma McKeon, Maggie McNeil, Sarah Sjostrom – ‘fly aces send heartfelt wishes and pay tribute to the absent Rikako Ikee on the podium at the 2019 World Championships in Gwangju – Photo Courtesy: Becca Wyant One of the most endearing displays of support arrived at the 2019 edition of the World Championships in Gwangju. Following the medals ceremony for the 100 butterfly, medalists Maggie Mac Neil, Sarah Sjostrom and Emma McKeon flashed messages of love and support written on their hands. Their friend – and competitor – was in their hearts. Gradually, Ikee returned to training and, eventually, competition. She qualified for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo as a member of Japan’s 400 medley relay. At these World Championships, held in her home nation, Ikee has raced individually and in relay duty. It’s been a beautiful sight, the continuation of a feel-good story. For Ikee to advance to the final of the 50 butterfly is a phenomenal achievement. There is no doubt she’ll receive a massive ovation when she is announced ahead of the final. And regardless of where she finishes, her story is worth a gold medal. “It’s just remarkable,” Sjostrom said. “I have no words for how amazing her comeback is already. I can’t even put words to what she has done. Medals and records and things like that don’t really matter when you go through the kind of challenge that she has gone through. That’s what everyone has to remember.”
