Draganja is also a former NCAA record holder in the 100 yard freestyle, with a time of 41.49, set in 2005, while he swam for the University of California, Berkeley.

During his four years with Cal under Hall of Fame Head Coach Nort Thornton, Duje won 10 Pac-10 swimming titles, and eight NCAA National championships.

[3] He has been controversial in Croatia for his decision to take the citizenship of Qatar and continue his swimming career under the flag of that country, after receiving a very lucrative offer to do so.

Croatian public opinion largely turned against Draganja at that time with the press portraying him as a villain with no respect for his homeland.

[4] However, in February 2006, the swimmer made it clear that he had reversed his decision and that he will continue to compete for his country of birth, Croatia.