Defending 200m Champion Haughey Withdraws from Swimming World Championships Due to Injury

Four-time Olympic medallist Siobhan Haughey has officially withdrawn from the upcoming World Aquatics Championships in Singapore due to a recurring back injury, leaving her unable to defend her women’s 200m freestyle title.

The 27-year-old swimmer from Hong Kong, who is one of Asia’s most decorated athletes in the pool, announced her decision on Monday via social media.

“I have pulled out of the world championships in Singapore due to an ongoing back injury,”
Haughey shared on her social media accounts.

Haughey’s withdrawal comes as a disappointment to fans worldwide, particularly given her stellar recent record:

Despite a strong start to the year with her win in Doha last year, Haughey had taken a four-month break from swimming earlier in 2025. She has only competed once since returning, raising concerns about her fitness leading into the championship season.

“I’m sad to miss out on the opportunity to compete against the best in the world, but right now I have to do what’s best for me,” she said.
“As elite athletes, we’re trained to push through the pain and fatigue to keep going. Yet at certain moments, the brave and hard thing to do is to take care of your body and wait patiently. Luckily I have an incredible team supporting me.”

Haughey had been scheduled to compete in the 100m and 200m freestyle events at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, with pool events set to run from 27 July to 3 August.

Her absence from the competition not only impacts Hong Kong’s medal prospects but also alters the dynamic in both freestyle events, where she was a favourite.

Fans and fellow athletes have flooded social media with messages of support, wishing her a swift and complete recovery.