List of world records in swimming

The ratification process is described in FINA Rule SW12,[1] and involves submission of paperwork certifying the accuracy of the timing system and the length of the pool, satisfaction of FINA rules regarding swimwear and a negative doping test by the swimmer(s) involved.

Some of the records below were established by swimmers wearing bodysuits or suits made of polyurethane or other non-textile materials allowed in the race pool from February 2008 until December 2009.

On the eve of the 2009 FINA World Championships in Rome, the international governing body for five Olympic aquatic sports voted to ban the use of bodysuits and all suits made of non-textile materials starting 1 January 2010.

[6] In October 2013, FINA decided to establish "standards" before something can be recognized as the first World Record in these events.

[7] But later on 13 March 2014 FINA has officially ratified the eight world records set by Indiana University swimmers at the IU Relay Rally held on 26 September 2013 in Bloomington.

Caeleb Dressel holds the most world records in men's swimming with four (two individual and two relays).
Katie Ledecky holds two long course world records (four total). Gretchen Walsh holds the most total records with nine (five individual and four relays).