Teenage Swim Star Luka Mijatovic Shatters 500-Yard Freestyle NAG Record

Mijatovic's time of 4:05.76 is the 3rd fastest in history, trailing only NCAA stars Leon Marchand and Rex Maurer.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Luka Mijatovic, a 16-year-old member of the U.S. national swim team, broke the 15-16 boys' National Age Group (NAG) record in the 500-yard freestyle with a stunning time of 4:05.76 at the Speedo Sectionals meet in Roseville, California. Mijatovic's performance is considered one of the finest in NAG record history, as his time is now the 3rd fastest ever in the event, trailing only NCAA champions Leon Marchand and Rex Maurer.

Why it matters

Mijatovic's record-breaking swim at just 16 years old highlights his immense talent and potential as a rising star in the sport of swimming. His performance puts him in elite company alongside some of the best collegiate swimmers in the country, and demonstrates the bright future he has ahead of him as he prepares to join the University of Texas program next year.

The details

Mijatovic's time of 4:05.76 was nearly 3 seconds faster than his previous 15-16 NAG record of 4:08.57. He covered the first 100 yards in 46.88 and turned in a 300-yard split of 2:27.50, showcasing his ability to maintain a blistering pace throughout the grueling 500-yard event. Mijatovic's closing split of 24.07 seconds was also faster than the splits of Marchand and Maurer when they set their respective records.

  • Mijatovic set the new 15-16 boys' NAG record in the 500-yard freestyle on March 1, 2026 at the Speedo Sectionals meet in Roseville, California.

The players

Luka Mijatovic

A 16-year-old member of the U.S. national swim team who has committed to swim collegiately at the University of Texas.

Leon Marchand

The current NCAA champion in the 500-yard freestyle, holding the 3rd fastest time in history with a 4:02.31.

Rex Maurer

The 2nd fastest performer in the 500-yard freestyle, having clocked a 4:04.45 at the 2024 Texas Invitational.

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What they’re saying

“Luka Mijatovic's performance was legendary in nature, cementing his status as one of the top young swimmers in the country.”

— John Lohn, Author (swimmingworldmagazine.com)

What’s next

Mijatovic will look to continue his record-breaking ways as he prepares to join the University of Texas program next year, where he will have the opportunity to train alongside fellow standouts Leon Marchand and Rex Maurer.

The takeaway

Mijatovic's jaw-dropping swim at just 16 years old demonstrates the incredible depth of young talent in the sport of swimming, and the bright future that lies ahead for this rising star as he takes the next step in his career.