Ahmed Hafnaoui Confirmed Out of Paris Olympics, Will Not Defend 400 Free Title

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The initial entry list for the Paris Olympics confirmed the absence of reigning 400 freestyle champion Ahmed Hafnaoui, who had previously said in May that his status was uncertain due to an undisclosed injury.

Hafnaoui began training at Indiana University in 2022 following his surprise 400 free title (3:43.36) from lane eight as an 18-year-old at the Tokyo Olympics the year prior. The Tunisian distance specialist had a huge performance at the last summer’s World Championships, scaring the world record in the 1500 free (14:31.54), winning another gold medal in the 800 free (7:37.00), and taking silver in the 400 free (3:40.70).

After just a couple dual meets with the Hoosiers, Hafnaoui moved to California to train with The Swim Team (TST) under head coach Mark Schubert, which created visa issues because he was no longer a student. Right before the 2024 World Championships in February, he said his intention was apply for a new visa and train with Schubert through the Paris Olympics.

But after placing 17th in the 400 free (3:48.05), 18th in the 800 free (7:51.72), and 17th in the 1500 free (15:09.72) at Worlds, reports surfaced in May that Hafnaoui was dealing with an unspecified injury and no longer planned on training in the United States. The only information on his ailment came from Tunisian Olympic Committee president Mehrez Boussayene, who said in May that Hafnaoui’s injury required him to rest for 45 days.

Hafnaoui initially refuted reports claiming he had already been ruled out of the Paris Olympics, leaving the door open for a potential return during an interview with French media in May.

“I’m currently suffering from an injury, and I don’t know whether or not I will participate in the Olympics,” Hafnaoui said.

His mother, Amira, said their priority was his “physical and mental health.”

“Even if he is absent, Ahmed is an Olympic champion and has achieved international recognition despite his young age, and there is still a long way to go before him to achieve the best,” Amira said.

Related:

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• Tunisian President Dissolves Board of Swimming Federation Over Flag Dispute

Tunisia is sending two swimmers to the Paris Olympics: Ahmed Jaouadi in the men’s 400 free and 10k open water, and Jamila Boulakbech in the women’s 800 free.