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The United States won more medals in the pool than any other country at the Summer Olympics in Paris, but big changes are coming to USA Swimming. The efforts in Paris were highlighted by athletes who won multiple gold medals like Katie Ledecky and Torri Huske, but organizers appear to be concerned about the margin of victory in the medal count. The United States won 28 medals, including eight gold medals, but it was the fewest they've won in swimming since 2004 and the fewest amount of golds they've won since 1988.
According to Sports Illustrated , USA Swimming CEO Tim Hinchey and national team manager Lindsay Mintenko are both expected to leave. The Olympics appeared to be the catalyst for change, but the disappointing results for USA Swimming began at the world championships last year. Australia dominated there, winning 13 gold medals to America's seven.
Mintenko has held her role since 2017, but she's reportedly been criticized for her leadership style and lack of experience as a coach. Hinchey has also been USA Swimming's CEO since 2017. He was instrumental in turning the Olympic trials into a larger event this year, taking it from Omaha, Nebraska to a football venue in Indianapolis, as they were held at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Quinn Rooney/Getty Images Hinchey's help to put the sport on a bigger stage has been appreciated, but the lack of results compared to previous years has likely spelled the end of his tenure. The team could also have a hard time replacing him, as the best candidate is currently working for the competition. Bob Bowman, who coached Michael Phelps to become the greatest Olympian of all time, is now coaching French sensation Leon Marchand.
Marchand won four gold medals in his home country, and at only 22, appears to be the sport's next superstar. With Ledecky - USA Swimming's best performer - likely preparing for her final run at the Games in 2028, big changes are in store for one of Team USA's most prominent teams. Related: The Spun's Most Annoying People In Football Media: Elite Eight.
