On July 23, 2023, French swimmer Léon Marchand stunned the world by breaking Michael Phelps’ last remaining individual world record in the 400m Individual Medley. The historic feat took place on the opening day of the Fukuoka 2023 World Aquatics Championships, held at Marine Messe Hall A in Fukuoka, Japan.

Marchand clocked an incredible 4:02.50, beating Phelps’ legendary record of 4:03.84. The 22-year-old is coached by none other than Bob Bowman, Phelps' former coach, adding an emotional twist to the moment. Phelps himself was in the stands to witness the achievement and personally congratulated Marchand during the medal ceremony.

The Legacy of Michael Phelps

Michael Phelps, often called the "Flying Fish", is the most decorated Olympian in history with 28 Olympic medals. After his retirement, the swimming world waited to see who could carry forward his legacy. Names like Caeleb Dressel and Kristóf Milák emerged, with Milák breaking Phelps’ 200m Butterfly world record at the 2019 Championships.

Path to Paris 2024

Marchand is now considered one of the top medal contenders for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games. In the French swimming trials held in June, he qualified for four major events: 400m Individual Medley, 200m Breaststroke, 200m Butterfly, and 200m Individual Medley.

First Meeting with Michael Phelps

Speaking about their first meeting, Marchand recalled: “It was my first time at the World Championships in Fukuoka. I had just completed my 400m heat, and Michael was in the stands. He called me over, and we met for the first time. He said, ‘Watch tonight.’ He was really excited for me. Meeting a legend gave me a lot of energy.”

Michael Phelps is expected to be present as a broadcaster and analyst for NBC during the Paris 2024 Olympics.