Tunisian Duo Sweep Distance Events at NCAA Championships

Ahmed Hafnaoui and Ahmed Jaouadi finish 1-2 in the 500 free, giving Florida a distance sweep

Mar. 28, 2026 at 3:50am

At the 2026 NCAA Division I Men's Swimming and Diving Championships, Tunisian swimmers Ahmed Hafnaoui and Ahmed Jaouadi, both representing the University of Florida, finished first and second in the 500 freestyle event. This marked a distance sweep for the Gators, with Hafnaoui earning his first NCAA title.

Why it matters

The performance of the Tunisian tandem highlights the growing international talent pool in NCAA swimming, as well as Florida's dominance in distance events. Their 1-2 finish is a significant accomplishment that will raise their profiles heading into future competitions.

The details

Hafnaoui and Jaouadi, who have trained together in the past, put on an impressive display in the 500 free final. Hafnaoui touched the wall first to claim the NCAA title, while Jaouadi followed closely behind in second place, completing the distance sweep for the Gators.

  • The 2026 NCAA Division I Men's Swimming and Diving Championships took place in March 2026.

The players

Ahmed Hafnaoui

A Tunisian swimmer representing the University of Florida, Hafnaoui won the NCAA title in the 500 freestyle event.

Ahmed Jaouadi

A Tunisian swimmer also representing the University of Florida, Jaouadi finished second in the 500 freestyle event, completing the distance sweep for the Gators.

University of Florida

The college team that Ahmed Hafnaoui and Ahmed Jaouadi represent, which dominated the distance events at the 2026 NCAA Championships.

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What they’re saying

“I think sub-4:00 is possible”

— Ahmed Hafnaoui

The takeaway

The performance of the Tunisian duo, Hafnaoui and Jaouadi, showcases the growing international talent in NCAA swimming and Florida's continued dominance in distance events. Their 1-2 finish in the 500 free will likely raise their profiles and expectations heading into future competitions.