Japan’s teenage swimmer Shin Ohashi has emerged as a promising contender in the lead-up to the 2028 Olympics, particularly in the breaststroke events. At 17 years old and standing 169 cm tall, Ohashi has recorded the two fastest 200-meter breaststroke times worldwide this year, positioning himself as a strong challenger for the world record during the ongoing Asian Games.

Earlier in 2026, Ohashi came close to surpassing the world record of 2:05.48 set by China’s Qin Haiyang, missing it by less than a second. At the Asian Games in Tokyo, Ohashi claimed gold in the 100-meter breaststroke after a dead heat with China’s Dong Zhihao, relegating Qin Haiyang to third place. This achievement is notable given Ohashi’s admitted fondness for junk food, including crisps and sugary drinks, which he says he sometimes consumes in excess before meals despite knowing it is unhealthy.

Japan’s prominence in swimming has diminished in recent years. The country’s medal haul has decreased from 11 swimming medals at the 2012 Olympics to just one at the Paris Games two years ago, following seven medals in 2016 and three at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. Ohashi’s rise comes at a crucial time as Japan seeks new talent to restore its competitive edge in the pool.

Ohashi has been compared to Kosuke Kitajima, Japan’s breaststroke legend who won both the 100m and 200m breaststroke titles at the 2004 Athens and 2008 Beijing Olympics. Kitajima, known as the “Frog King,” praised Ohashi’s potential during the Asian Games, stating that he could become a formidable international competitor. Kitajima highlighted Ohashi’s compact build and combination of speed and endurance as assets, contrasting him with taller rivals like Qin Haiyang, who stands 192 cm.

Ohashi has expressed confidence ahead of his anticipated face-off with Qin Haiyang in the 200m breaststroke event, aspiring to break the world record. He acknowledged that he faced challenges in the run-up to the 100m race due to a cold, which left him “frustrated” and somewhat fatigued toward the finish. Nevertheless, Ohashi emphasized that his preparation for the 200m has been solid, and his goal is to achieve a new personal best.

As the Asian Games progress, all eyes will be on Ohashi as he attempts to further elevate Japan’s swimming prospects on the world stage.