Frédérick Bousquet

Fred Bousquet-2

Frédérick Bousquet is a retired French swimmer who specialized in freestyle and butterfly events. Born on April 8, 1981, in Perpignan, France, Bousquet has been a prominent figure in international swimming competitions, particularly in the 50m and 100m freestyle and butterfly events. He is known for his powerful and efficient swimming technique, which has earned him numerous medals at various levels of competition, including the Olympic Games, the World Championships, and the European Championships.

Career

Bousquet's swimming career is marked by significant achievements and records. He first came into international prominence at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, where he competed in the 4x100m freestyle relay. Over the years, Bousquet developed into one of the world's leading sprinters in swimming.

One of his most notable achievements came in 2009 when he set a world record in the 50m freestyle at a meet in Montpellier, France, with a time of 20.94 seconds. This made him the first person to swim the event in under 21 seconds, a landmark achievement in the swimming world. Although his world record has since been surpassed, this performance remains a highlight of his career.

Bousquet has also been successful at the European level, winning multiple gold medals at the European Swimming Championships. His versatility allowed him to excel not only in individual events but also as a crucial member of the French relay teams, contributing to France's success in international relays.

Personal Life

Frédérick Bousquet has been in a relationship with fellow French swimmer Laure Manaudou, a highly decorated Olympian in her own right. The couple has a daughter together, further cementing their bond through their shared love for swimming.

Retirement

After a successful career spanning over a decade, Bousquet announced his retirement from competitive swimming. His legacy in the sport is marked by his exceptional speed, technique, and contributions to French swimming on the international stage.

Legacy and Impact

Frédérick Bousquet's impact on swimming extends beyond his individual achievements. He has been a role model for young swimmers, demonstrating the importance of dedication, technique, and sportsmanship. His world record in the 50m freestyle in 2009 was a groundbreaking moment that pushed the boundaries of what was considered possible in sprint swimming.

See Also

• List of world records in swimming
• List of Olympic medalists in swimming (men)
• French National Swimming Championships