Frédérick Bousquet, French swimmer

Frédérick Bousquet, whose name is pronounced approximately [fʁe.de.ʁik bu.skɛ], is a highly accomplished retired French swimmer, celebrated for his prowess in both freestyle and butterfly disciplines. Born on April 8, 1981, in the picturesque city of Perpignan, Bousquet left an indelible mark on competitive swimming, particularly in the sprint events.

A Pioneer in Sprint Swimming: Breaking Barriers

One of the most significant achievements in Frédérick Bousquet's career came on April 26, 2009, when he shattered the world record in the men's 50-meter freestyle long course event. At the final of the French Championships, he clocked an astonishing time of 20.94 seconds, becoming the very first swimmer in history to complete the distance in under 21 seconds. This feat was not merely a new record; it was a groundbreaking moment, pushing the boundaries of human speed in the pool.

However, this historic swim occurred during a controversial period in swimming history, often referred to as the "super suit" era. Bousquet’s record-breaking performance was achieved while wearing a technologically advanced, performance-enhancing swimsuit, which was soon to be banned by FINA, the international governing body for aquatic sports. For a time, there was uncertainty surrounding the official recognition of his record. FINA ultimately approved the record in July of that year, following modifications to the suit regulations and careful review, solidifying his place in the record books.

Long before his long course triumph, Bousquet had already demonstrated his exceptional speed in short course swimming. In 2004, at the Men's NCAA Division One Swimming and Diving Championships, he set a world record in the 50-meter short course freestyle with a time of 21.10 seconds. This record stood for an impressive duration of over two years, underscoring his consistent dominance in the sprint format across various competitive circuits.

Global Recognition: Medals on the World Stage

Frédérick Bousquet's talent translated into significant international success, notably at the 2009 World Championships held in Rome. This championship saw him compete in his signature events, the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle. He delivered stellar performances, earning a silver medal in the intensely competitive 50-meter freestyle and adding a bronze medal in the 100-meter freestyle. These medals further cemented his reputation as one of the world's elite sprint swimmers during a fiercely competitive era.

Beyond the Pool: Personal Connections and Legacy

While Frédérick Bousquet enjoyed a distinguished career, like many athletes, he faced the challenge of Olympic qualification. He did not secure a spot on the French team for the 2012 London Olympics. Interestingly, his personal life was deeply intertwined with other prominent figures in French swimming. His ex-partner, Laure Manaudou, a celebrated Olympic gold medalist, and her brother, Florent Manaudou, who himself went on to become an Olympic champion in the 50-meter freestyle, both successfully qualified for and competed at the 2012 Games. This connection highlights Bousquet's place within a remarkable lineage of French swimming talent.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What was Frédérick Bousquet's most significant world record?

Frédérick Bousquet's most notable world record was in the 50-meter freestyle long course, where he became the first swimmer to break the 21-second barrier with a time of 20.94 seconds on April 26, 2009.

Why was there controversy surrounding his 50m long course world record?

The record was set during the "super suit" era, using a high-tech, performance-enhancing swimsuit that was later banned. FINA eventually approved his record after reviewing the suit's specifics and modifying rules.

Did Frédérick Bousquet hold any other world records?

Yes, he previously held the world record in the 50-meter freestyle short course with a time of 21.10 seconds, set in 2004, which he maintained for over two years.

What medals did he win at the 2009 World Championships?

At the 2009 World Championships in Rome, Frédérick Bousquet secured a silver medal in the 50-meter freestyle and a bronze medal in the 100-meter freestyle.

What is Frédérick Bousquet's connection to the Manaudou family?

Frédérick Bousquet's ex-partner is Laure Manaudou, an Olympic gold medalist, and her brother, Florent Manaudou, is also an Olympic champion in swimming. Both Laure and Florent qualified for the 2012 Olympics, unlike Frédérick.