In a jaw-dropping performance that stunned the swimming world, Germany’s Lukas Märtens has etched his name in history by breaking the long-standing world record in the men’s 400-meter freestyle. At a major international meet on Sunday, Märtens clocked an astonishing 3:39.96, smashing the 2009 super-suited world record of 3:40.07 set by Germany’s Paul Biedermann.
The previous mark, set during the controversial era of polyurethane swimsuits, had stood for over 15 years and was widely considered one of the toughest records in the book. With tech suits now banned, many believed it would take a generation to see times like that again—until Märtens changed the narrative.
Märtens, already a standout middle-distance swimmer on the international circuit, delivered a perfectly paced race, surging ahead in the final 100 meters with a blistering kick. His splits were remarkably consistent, showcasing both endurance and control. As he touched the wall, the crowd erupted upon seeing the time flash on the scoreboard.
“I knew I was in shape,” Märtens said post-race. “But to go under 3:40—it’s something I dreamed of, not something I expected today. It’s unbelievable.”
This historic swim doesn’t just secure Märtens a place in the record books—it also redefines what’s possible in textile-era swimming. Coaches, analysts, and athletes across the globe are already calling it one of the greatest swims of the modern era.
With this performance, Märtens now sets the tone for a thrilling season ahead, and all eyes will be on him as he prepares for the World Championships and beyond.
