Kalia Antoniou sets new Cypriot record in 50m backstroke

Cypriot swimmer Kalia Antoniou set a new national record in the 50m backstroke during the 2026 Short Course World Championship Trials in Westmont, Illinois. The competition, which runs from October 28 to October 31, 2026, served as the venue for her latest athletic achievement.

Antoniou recorded a time of 26.82 seconds, successfully breaking her own previous national record of 26.86 seconds. This earlier benchmark had been established on December 6, 2025, during the European Short Course Swimming Championships. Her current performance highlights her ongoing progress and competitive form in international swimming under the guidance of her coach, Stavros Michaelides.

The Cyprus Swimming Federation acknowledged the milestone as a confirmation of her high level of preparation. The event in Westmont concludes on October 31, marking the end of the trials for the athlete before she potentially moves on to future international competitions.