Berlin, Germany – July 22, 2025
South African swimmer Olivia Nel has emerged as one of the standout performers in the pool at the 2025 FISU World University Games, collecting an impressive four bronze medals during the swimming competition in Berlin. Her consistent performances have not only boosted Team South Africa’s overall tally but have also helped place the country 10th on the overall medal table, and 5th in swimming based on total medals won.
Nel’s medal run began on Saturday, July 19, when she swam as part of the South African team in the Mixed 4×100m Medley Relay Final, where the team secured bronze in a tightly contested race. Just two days later, she returned to the pool for the Mixed 4×100m Freestyle Relay Final, contributing to yet another team bronze for South Africa on Monday evening.
Shifting her focus to individual events, Nel reached the Women’s 50m Backstroke Final on Tuesday evening after qualifying second in her heat with a time of 28.19 seconds, just behind American Leah Shackley, who would go on to take the gold. In the semifinals, Nel won her heat with a strong 27.96, with fellow South African Michaela De Villiers finishing just behind her to also qualify for the final. Nel went on to clock 27.91 in the final, securing her third bronze medal, behind the American duo of Shackley and Helen Noble.
Nel wrapped up her campaign with another standout showing in the Women’s 50m Freestyle Final. After qualifying third in her heat with a 24.82, behind Maxine Parker (USA) and Agata Ambler (Italy), she stepped up to win her semifinal in 24.96, this time finishing ahead of Parker. In the final, Nel returned to a time of 24.82 to clinch her fourth bronze medal, with Parker and Julia Dennis (USA) taking gold and silver respectively.
The 23-year-old, who currently competes for North Carolina State University in the United States, is part of a growing group of South African swimmers who are using the competitive U.S. collegiate circuit to gain experience and sharpen their skills for international events.
Nel’s fourth medal came on the final day of the swimming gala, capping off a strong showing in Berlin. Her performances have been marked by consistency, composure, and the ability to deliver in both team and individual events—helping contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s growing momentum at the Games.
For More South African Sports News: Sport South Africa Home Page
For More South African World University Games News:
Lythe Pillay Claims 400m Gold at World University Games with Season’s Best
South Africa Claims Bronze in Mixed 4×100m Freestyle Relay at World University Games
Gabriella Marais Earns 100m Bronze for South Africa at World University Games
