South Africa’s le Clos breaks Commonwealth Games medal record
South African swimmer Chad le Clos has become the most decorated athlete in Commonwealth Games history after winning his 21st medal. The 34-year-old secured the record by winning bronze in the men’s 4x100 medley relay.
Why it matters
This marks a historic milestone in international sports, highlighting the longevity and sustained excellence of a prominent Olympic athlete.
South Africa took bronze in the men’s 4×100 medley relay swimming event for Chad le Clos’s record 21st Games medal.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Bronze medallists South Africa's Michael Houlie and Chad le Clos celebrate after the men's 4x100-metre medley relay final [Andrew Couldridge/Reuters] By Reuters Published On 30 Jul 2026 30 Jul 2026 Veteran South African swimmer Chad le Clos has won a 21st Commonwealth Games medal to overtake Australia’s Emma McKeon as the most decorated athlete in the Games’ history.
The 34-year-old swam the butterfly leg as South Africa took bronze in the men’s 4×100 medley relay late on Wednesday, for his third of the 2026 Games after silver in the mixed 4×100 medley and bronze in the men’s 4×100 freestyle relay.
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