Yusei Imaizumi Breaks World Junior Record in 100m Breaststroke Short Course at Niigata High School Tournament

At the 2026 Niigata Prefecture High School Autumn Tournament, 17-year-old swimmer Yusei Imaizumi created a historic feat by breaking the world junior record in the men's 100m breaststroke short course. With a time of 56.35 seconds, Imaizumi not only surpassed the previous record held by Shin Ohashi at 56.65 seconds but also demonstrated an aggressive front-loaded swimming strategy from the start. This world junior record was set at a domestic competition, offering significant implications for Japan's swimming future. The event took place in Niigata, where high school students competed with high determination but low pressure. Shin Ohashi had previously set the 56.65 record at the All Japan Junior Olympic Cup in March 2026. Imaizumi's prior time was 57.18 seconds at the same meet. The 0.83-second improvement in just 6 months highlights his talent.