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Key Information

Nathan Adrian
Traditional Chinese倪家駿
Simplified Chinese倪家骏
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu PinyinNí Jiājùn
Yue: Cantonese
JyutpingNgai4 Gaa1–zeon3

Nathan Ghar-jun Adrian (born December 7, 1988) is an American competitive swimmer and five-time Olympic gold medalist who formerly held the American record in the long course 50-meter freestyle event.[2]

In his Olympic debut at the 2008 Summer Olympics, Adrian swam in the heats of the 4×100-meter freestyle relay and earned a gold medal when the United States team won in the final. At the 2012 Summer Olympics, Adrian won gold medals in both the 100-meter freestyle and the 4×100-meter medley relay, and a silver medal in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay. He has won thirty-two medals in major international competitions; twenty gold, seven silver, and five bronze in such competitions as the Summer Olympics, the FINA World Aquatics Championships, and the Pan Pacific Swimming Championships. In the 2016 Summer Olympics 4x100-meter freestyle relay a gold was won with Michael Phelps, Caeleb Dressel, and Ryan Held. He was an individual bronze medalist in the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyles.

Early years

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Adrian was born in Bremerton, Washington, in 1988.[3] He is the son of Cecilia and James Adrian. His mother is Chinese from Hong Kong[4][5] and works as a nurse for the Bremerton school district; his father is a retired nuclear engineer for the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.[6] Adrian has an older sister, Donella, who swam at Arizona State University, and an older brother, Justin, who swam at the University of Washington. Adrian started swimming at the age of five because of the influence of his siblings. He graduated in 2006 from Bremerton High School, where he swam for the school team.[7]

Adrian attended the University of California, Berkeley in fall 2006, where he majored in public health and competed in swimming under Head Coach Dave Durden. He graduated with honors in the spring of 2012.[8] Adrian was a five-time individual NCAA champion, winning the 50-yard freestyle in 2009 and 2011 and the 100-yard freestyle in 2009, 2010, and 2011.[9][10][11][12]

Career

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2008 Short Course World Championships

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At the 2008 Short Course World Championships, Adrian won gold in the 100-meter freestyle and 4×100-meter freestyle relay and silver in the 4×100-meter medley relay. In the 4×100-meter freestyle relay, Adrian combined with Ryan Lochte, Bryan Lundquist and Doug Van Wie won gold in a world record time of 3:08.44.[13] In his second event, the 100-meter freestyle, Adrian won gold in a time of 46.67, just ahead of Filippo Magnini who finished second with a time of 46.70.[14] For his last event, the 4×100-meter medley relay, Adrian combined with Randall Bal, Mark Gangloff and Ryan Lochte, won silver behind Russia.[15]

2008 Beijing Summer Olympics

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See also: Swimming at the 2008 Summer Olympics
2008 Summer Olympics
Gold medal – first place 4×100 m freestyle 3:08.24 (WR)

At the 2008 United States Olympic Trials, Adrian placed fourth in the 100-meter freestyle, qualifying him to swim in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay at the Olympics.[16] He also placed sixth in the 50-meter freestyle.[17]

At the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, Adrian swam the first leg in the preliminary heats of the 4×100-meter freestyle relay, splitting a time of 48.82 seconds. Cullen Jones, Ben Wildman-Tobriner and Matt Grevers completed the relay with a final time of 3:12.23, a world record.[18] This record was broken one day later when Michael Phelps, Garrett Weber-Gale, Cullen Jones and Jason Lezak swam a time of 3:08.24, beating France and Australia in the final. By swimming in the heats, Adrian earned a gold medal even though he didn't swim in the final.[19]

Adrian was training under coach Mike Bottom in the Florida Keys as part of The Race Club swimming training program World Team leading up to the 2008 Olympics.[20]

2009 World Championships

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See also: Swimming at the 2009 World Aquatics Championships

At the 2009 National Championships, Adrian placed first in the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle events, qualifying him to swim at the 2009 World Aquatics Championships in Rome.[21][22]

At the 2009 World Aquatics Championships, Adrian earned gold in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay and the 4×100-meter medley relay. Adrian also placed sixth in the 50-meter freestyle and tenth in the 100-meter freestyle.[23][24] After Michael Phelps, Ryan Lochte and Matt Grevers completed their legs in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay, the United States had a slight deficit behind the Russian team. However, Adrian swam the anchor leg in 46.79 to overtake Danila Izotov for first place. The final time of 3:09.21 was a championship record.[25] In the 4×100-meter medley relay, Adrian contributed in the heats (with Matt Grevers, Mark Gangloff and Tyler McGill) and earned a gold medal when the U.S. team placed first in the final.[26]

2010

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At the 2010 National Championships, Adrian qualified to compete at the 2010 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships by winning the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle titles.[27][28] His win in the 100-meter freestyle also guaranteed him a spot on the 4×100-meter freestyle and 4×100-meter medley relay teams.

At the 2010 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships, Adrian won a total of four gold medals, the best performance of his career. In his first event, the 100-meter freestyle, Adrian won the gold medal in 48.15, beating Canadian Brent Hayden and world-record holder in the 100-meter freestyle César Cielo.[29] The following day, Adrian lined up alongside Michael Phelps, Ryan Lochte and Jason Lezak to anchor the 4×100-meter freestyle relay. With no competition, Adrian recorded a time of 47.51 and the U.S. team won the gold in a time of 3:11.74.[30] The following day, Adrian then competed in the 50-meter freestyle and the 4×100-meter medley relay. In the final of the 50-meter freestyle, Adrian shocked favorite Cielo, winning in a time of 21.55 seconds; Cielo finished second in 21.57.[31] About an hour and a half later, Adrian competed in the 4×100-meter medley relay with Aaron Peirsol, Mark Gangloff and Michael Phelps. Swimming the freestyle leg, Adrian recorded a time of 47.54, the fastest in the field and the U.S. team won the gold in a time of 3:32.48.[32]

2011

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2011 World Championships

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See also: Swimming at the 2011 World Aquatics Championships

Adrian won his first medal, a bronze, in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay with Michael Phelps, Garrett Weber-Gale and Jason Lezak. Swimming the anchor leg, Adrian recorded a time of 47.40.[33] In the final of the 100-meter freestyle, Adrian placed sixth with a time of 48.23, well off his semi-final time of 48.05. In the 50-meter freestyle final, Adrian placed fourth with a time of 21.93 seconds, just one one-hundredth (0.01) of a second ahead behind third-place finisher Alain Bernard. In his last event, the 4×100-meter medley relay, Adrian teamed with Mark Gangloff, Michael Phelps, and Nick Thoman to win gold in a time of 3:32.06. Swimming the freestyle leg, Adrian had a time of 47.64.

2011 National Championships

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At the 2011 National Championships, Adrian defended his 50-meter freestyle title with a time of 21.84 seconds.[34] His time moved him to fourth in the world behind César Cielo (21.52), Bruno Fratus (21.76), and Frédérick Bousquet (21.78).[35] He chose to sit out of the 100-meter freestyle in order to prepare for the 2012 Summer Olympics.

2012 London Summer Olympics

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See also: Swimming at the 2012 Summer Olympics
2012 Olympics
Gold medal – first place 100 m freestyle 47.52
Gold medal – first place 4×100 m medley relay 3:29.35
Silver medal – second place 4×100 m freestyle relay 3:10.38

At the 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials in Omaha, Nebraska, the qualifying meet for the 2012 Olympics, Adrian made the U.S. Olympic team for the second time by finishing first in his first event, the 100-meter freestyle. In the final of the 100-meter freestyle, Adrian posted a time of 48.10 seconds to finish ahead of Cullen Jones, who had a time of 48.46. He also placed third for the 50-meter freestyle with a time of 21.68, just missing a spot in that event.

At the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, Adrian won his inaugural Olympiad medal, a silver, in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay with Michael Phelps, Cullen Jones and Ryan Lochte, with the team finishing behind France. Swimming the lead-off leg, Adrian recorded a split of 47.89 seconds, and the team finished with a final time of 3:10.38. Adrian's lead-off time was the fastest first leg in the field, and Adrian's inaugural time breaking 48 seconds.

On the fifth day of competition, Adrian won the gold medal in the 100-meter freestyle final, defeating favorite James Magnussen of Australia by one one-hundredth (0.01) of a second.[36] In the race, Adrian set a new personal record with a time of 47.52.[37] Going into the 100-meter freestyle final, Adrian was seeded second with a time of 47.97, which was only the second time he ever broke 48 seconds in the event. In winning the 100-meter freestyle, Adrian became the first American male to win the event since Matt Biondi did in 1988.[38]

Adrian won a second gold medal as a member of the winning U.S. team in the 4×100-meter medley relay on the final day of the competition. He swam the anchor freestyle leg, with Matt Grevers swimming the backstroke leadoff leg, Brendan Hansen the breaststroke second leg, and Michael Phelps the butterfly third leg. The Americans recorded a time of 3:29:35, with the Japanese team taking the silver medal and the Australians receiving the bronze. In the race, Adrian had a split of 46.85, the fastest in the field.

In August 2012, a street in Adrian's hometown, Bremerton, Washington, was renamed "Nathan Adrian Drive" for Adrian's Olympic achievements.[39]

2013 World Championships

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Adrian claims gold in relay at the 2015 World Championships
See also: Swimming at the 2013 World Aquatics Championships

At the 2013 U.S. National Championships, Adrian qualified to swim at the 2013 World Aquatics Championships in Barcelona by placing first in the 50 and 100-meter freestyle with times of 21.47 and 48.10, respectively.

In his first event at the World Championships, Adrian combined with Ryan Lochte, Anthony Ervin, and Jimmy Feigen in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay, with the team finishing behind France. Swimming the lead-off leg, Adrian recorded a split of 47.95 seconds, and the team finished with a final time of 3:11.42. Adrian's lead-off time was the fastest first leg in the field.

Adrian advanced to the 100-meter freestyle final as the top seed by posting 47.95 in the semi-finals. In the 100-meter freestyle, Adrian won bronze in a time of 47.84, only two-hundredths of a second behind second-place finisher Jimmy Feigen. In his second individual event, the 50-meter freestyle, Adrian was just off the podium with a fourth-place finish, finishing with a time of 21.60.

2015 World Championships

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See also: Swimming at the 2015 World Aquatics Championships

At the 2015 World Championships, Adrian swam in two relays and two individual events. In the 4x100 freestyle relay, the US team failed to advance to the final in the heats, so Adrian could not swim the finals of the relay. In his first individual event, the 100-meter freestyle, Adrian tied for seventh in the final, finishing in 48.31. Nonetheless, Adrian bounced back to break a six-year old American record in the 50-meter freestyle in 21.37 seconds in the semifinals. In the final, Adrian won a silver medal in the 50-meter freestyle, touching second behind Florent Manadou in 21.52. On the same night, Adrian was also part of the winning 4x100-meter mixed freestyle relay along with Ryan Lochte, Simone Manuel, and Missy Franklin. They broke the world record with a time of 3:23.05.[40] Adrian won another gold medal in the 4x100-meter medley relay with Ryan Murphy, Kevin Cordes, and Tom Shields. He anchored in 47.41 to touch the wall at 3:29.93.[41]

2016 Rio Summer Olympics

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See also: Swimming at the 2016 Summer Olympics

At the 2016 United States Olympic Trials, the U.S. qualifying meet for the Rio Olympics, Adrian qualified for his third Olympiad by winning both the 50- and 100-meter freestyle. He finished half a second ahead of the field in the 100-meter freestyle in 47.72.[42] In the 50-meter freestyle, Adrian redeemed his third-place finish from the 2012 Trials by finishing first in 21.51, one hundredth of a second ahead of second-place finisher Anthony Ervin.[43]

2016 Summer Olympics
Gold medal – first place 4×100 m freestyle 3:09.92
Gold medal – first place 4×100 m medley 3:27.95 (OR)
Bronze medal – third place 50 m freestyle 21.49
Bronze medal – third place 100 m freestyle 47.85

In Rio de Janeiro, Adrian won a total of four medals. He won his first medal as the anchor for the 4×100-meter freestyle relay alongside Caeleb Dressel, Michael Phelps, and Ryan Held. The Americans, with Dressel and Held as first-time Olympic competitors, finished with a time of 3:09.92, followed by France and Australia. Adrian's final leg was 46.97 seconds, the fastest of the field.[44][45] In his first individual event, the 100-meter freestyle, Adrian touched third behind Kyle Chalmers and Pieter Timmers in 47.85 seconds. Adrian won another bronze medal in the 50-meter freestyle, finishing in 21.49 seconds. Another American, Anthony Ervin, won in 21.40 seconds and the defending Olympic champion Florent Manadou took second. He capped off his Olympics with another gold medal in the 4x100-meter medley relay on the final day of the competition, swimming alongside Ryan Murphy, Cody Miller, and Michael Phelps. He anchored the relay with a 46.74 split to bring home the gold in 3:27.95, a new Olympic record.[46]

2018 Pan Pacific Championships

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At the 2018 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships during August 2018 in Tokyo, Japan, Adrian won a gold medal as part of the USA men's relay in the 4x100-meter medley relay event swimming a 47.71 on the freestyle leg of the relay.[47]

2019

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2019 World Aquatics Championships

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After fighting off testicular cancer and not being able to swim or lift weights over 15 pounds for some time, Adrian was back to swimming at the 2019 World Aquatics Championships in July 2019 in Gwangju, South Korea.[48] He won a gold medal in the men's 4x100-meter freestyle relay, swimming a 47.08 as the anchoring leg of the USA's relay.[49]

2019 Pan American Games

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Adrian competed at the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru in August 2019.[50] As part of his efforts at the games, Adrian won silver in the men's 4x100-meter freestyle relay, gold in the mixed 4x100-meter freestyle relay, silver in the men's 100-meter freestyle, silver in the men's 50-meter freestyle, and gold in the men's 4x100-meter medley relay.[51]

2021

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2020 US Olympic Trials

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Adrian entered to swim two individual events at the 2020 US Olympic Trials (postponed to June 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic), the 100-meter freestyle and 50-meter freestyle.[52]

On the fourth day of the Olympic Trials, Adrian competed in the prelims of the 100-meter freestyle, ranking 6th of all heats and advancing to the semifinals with a time of 48.37.[53][54] In the semifinals, Adrian swam a 48.92 coming in 13th for both semifinals and not qualifying for the final.[55][56][57]

In the morning prelims of the 50-meter freestyle on day seven of competition, Adrian ranked third with his swim of 21.85 and qualified for the semifinals.[58][59] During the semifinals Adrian lowered his time to a 21.78 and ranked third across both heats. This swim advanced him to the event final the following day.[60][61] Adrian finished third in the final on day eight, not qualifying to swim the 50 meter freestyle at the 2020 Summer Olympics with his time of 21.73.[62][63]

Adrian had hoped to culminate his overcoming testicular cancer journey by competing in his fourth Olympic Games.[64] His swims at the 2020 US Olympic Trials confirmed that his fourth Olympic Games would not be the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.[64][65] While he did not make the 2020 US Olympic Team, Adrian's swims earned him a spot on the 2021–2022 US National Team, marking the 14th time he had achieved a spot on the team.[66][67]

Personal bests

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As of July 31, 2017
Long Course Meters
Event Time Meet Date Note(s)
50 m freestyle 21.37 2015 World Aquatics Championships August 7, 2015 Former AM
100 m freestyle 47.52 2012 Summer Olympics August 4, 2012
Short Course Meters
Event Time Meet Date Note(s)
50 m freestyle 20.71 2009 Duel in the Pool December 18, 2009 Unofficial AM
100 m freestyle 45.08 2009 Duel in the Pool December 19, 2009 =Unofficial AM
Short Course Yards
Event Time Meet Date Note(s)
50 y freestyle 18.66 2011 NCAA Championships March 24, 2011 Former AM[68]
100 y freestyle 41.08 2009 NCAA Championships March 28, 2009 Former AM[68]

[69][70]

Personal life

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In May 2017, Adrian became engaged to merchandising director Hallie Ivester after six years of dating.[71] They were married on September 15, 2018, in Rutherford, California[72] and welcomed a daughter on February 9, 2021.[73] In January 2019, Adrian announced on Instagram that he was diagnosed with testicular cancer, for which he underwent surgery.[74]

Trivia

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Nathan Adrian Drive road sign in Bremerton, Washington

Adrian appeared in episode 5 of the 2009 season of the Discovery Channel series, MythBusters, to assist hosts Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman in testing the myth that it is possible to swim as fast in syrup as in water. His test results however, were declared invalid by Savage and Hyneman, because they determined that Adrian was so used to swimming in water, that his technique was completely disrupted when swimming in the syrup. This disruption caused his lap times when swimming in syrup to vary wildly in comparison with his extremely consistent lap times in water.

In 2014, Adrian was inducted into The Robert Chinn Foundation Asian Hall of Fame Archived August 7, 2016, at the Wayback Machine.[75][76]

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Nathan Adrian

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Nathan Adrian (born December 7, 1988) is an American former competitive swimmer and sprint freestyle specialist who won eight medals across four , including five golds, one silver, and two bronzes. Born in , to parents Jim and Cecilia Adrian—whose mother hails from —Adrian began swimming competitively at age five, following his older siblings Justin and Donella, both accomplished swimmers. He graduated from Bremerton High School in 2006 and earned a degree in from the in 2012, where he set multiple American records and won NCAA titles in the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle events. Adrian's international career launched at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he contributed to the U.S. team's gold medal in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay, setting a world record in the process. At the 2012 London Olympics, he claimed his first individual gold in the 100-meter freestyle—ending a 24-year U.S. drought in the event—along with a gold in the 4×100-meter medley relay and a silver in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay. In 2016 at the Rio Olympics, Adrian added two more relay golds (4×100-meter freestyle and medley) and individual bronzes in both the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle events. Despite a 2019 diagnosis of testicular cancer that forced a hiatus from competition, Adrian made a triumphant return, qualifying for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021), where he competed in the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle but did not advance to finals. Over his career, he amassed 16 World Aquatics Championships medals (10 golds, 4 silvers, 2 bronzes) and formerly held American records in the long-course 50-meter (21.37 seconds) and 100-meter (45.42 seconds) freestyle events. Following his retirement after the Games, Adrian has served as an ambassador for the Foundation since 2014 and co-owns the AC Swim Club in , focusing on youth development and coaching. Standing at 6 feet 6 inches tall, his powerful physique and relay anchoring prowess made him a cornerstone of U.S. success, earning him recognition as one of the most decorated sprinters in American history.

Early life and education

Childhood and family background

Nathan Adrian was born on December 7, 1988, in , as the youngest of three children to James Adrian and Cecilia Adrian. His father, James, worked as a nuclear engineer before retiring, while his mother, Cecilia, originally from , served as a nurse for the Bremerton School District. Adrian grew up in a sports-focused household in Bremerton, where his older brother Justin and sister Donella, both accomplished swimmers—Justin at the and Donella at —provided early inspiration and shaped family dynamics around athletic discipline and competitiveness. This environment, marked by the siblings' shared passion for , ultimately guided Adrian toward the sport and his entry into club competition at a young age.

Introduction to swimming and early training

Nathan Adrian was introduced to competitive at the age of five, largely influenced by his older siblings, Justin and Donella, who were already active in the sport and earned college swimming scholarships. Growing up in , Adrian joined a local club team to follow their example, initially participating for fun alongside family outings to swim meets where the siblings were dubbed "pool rats" for their early enthusiasm. His parents, Jim and Cecilia, encouraged the activity as a safe and structured pursuit in their community, which had challenging graduation rates of around 50-60% during his childhood. Adrian began his club swimming with the Olympic Aquatic Club in Bremerton, where his foundational training emphasized freestyle events, particularly sprints, to build both speed and endurance suitable for a young athlete. Early sessions focused on basic technique and conditioning through age-group practices, helping him progress from struggling to complete a 25-yard swim in over a minute to competing effectively in short-distance races. His regimen included regular drills on stroke efficiency and breath control, tailored to nurture his natural aptitude for explosive starts and turns in the pool. By around 2000-2002, at ages 11 to 13, Adrian entered his first regional competitions, primarily in the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle, where coaches prioritized technique refinement over raw power to support his developing sprint style. These meets provided essential experience in competitive pacing and race strategy, contributing to his steady improvement in local and circuits.

High school career

Nathan Adrian attended Bremerton High School in Bremerton, Washington, where he graduated in 2006 while maintaining a strong balance between his athletic pursuits and academics. As a freshman in the 2002–2003 season, Adrian burst onto the scene by winning the Washington 4A state championship in the 100-yard freestyle. He opted out of high school during his year (2003–2004) to concentrate on club training with the Tacoma Swim Club, which provided a more advanced competitive environment. Returning for his junior and senior years, he continued his dominance, becoming a three-time state 4A champion overall. In 2005–2006, as a senior, Adrian captured state titles in both the 100-yard and 200-yard freestyle events at the championships held at the King County Aquatics Center in Federal Way, setting a new state record of 1:37.17 in the 200-yard freestyle—a mark that erased the previous record held by Olympian Ugur Taner by just 0.01 seconds. Beyond state-level success, Adrian's performances earned him national recognition. In December 2005, he represented the at the Junior Pan Pacific Championships in , as part of the National Youth Team, finishing fourth in the 100-meter freestyle. He also competed at the 2005 U.S. Open Championships, placing seventh in both the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle events, where his 100-meter time of 51.06 seconds notably outpaced future Olympic star . These results highlighted his potential as a top sprinter, placing him in the top eight nationally in sprint freestyles at junior levels. Adrian's high school achievements drew interest from several elite collegiate programs, culminating in his signing of a with the , in December 2005. He chose Cal for its prestigious program under coach Dave Durden, which emphasized sprint development and offered a pathway to international competition. This decision marked the end of his high school career and the beginning of his transition to collegiate and professional swimming.

College years at UC Berkeley

Adrian enrolled at the University of California, Berkeley, in the fall of 2006 following recruitment from his high school career, choosing the institution for its strong swimming program under head coach Dave Durden. He majored in and graduated with honors in 2012, successfully balancing rigorous academic coursework with the demands of elite-level swimming training. During his time at Berkeley, Adrian trained under Durden, who fostered a competitive team environment that emphasized sprint freestyle and events, aligning with Adrian's strengths as a sprinter. The Cal Bears' program provided a supportive structure for student-athletes, including access to and tutoring services, which were essential for Adrian as he navigated his schedule around international competitions and national team obligations. This integration helped him maintain consistent academic progress despite extensive travel. Adrian earned recognition for his academic achievements, including selection as a two-time CoSIDA Academic All-American and a first-team Pac-10 All-Academic honoree in 2010. In his senior year, he received the Tom Hansen Conference Medal as Cal's outstanding senior male student-athlete, highlighting his success in combining scholarly excellence with athletic prowess.

Club and collegiate achievements

NCAA Championships performances

During his time at the University of California, Berkeley, Nathan Adrian established himself as one of the premier sprint freestylers in NCAA history, earning five individual national titles and contributing to numerous relay victories that bolstered the Golden Bears' program. His performances were marked by record-breaking swims and consistent excellence in high-stakes finals, often under the guidance of coach and later Dave Durden. In 2009, as a junior, Adrian claimed his first NCAA individual titles in both the 50-yard and 100-yard freestyle events, setting American records of 18.71 seconds and 41.08 seconds, respectively. These marks also established new school records for Cal, and he anchored the winning 400-yard freestyle relay team, further solidifying the Bears' relay dominance. The following year, in 2010, Adrian defended his 100-yard freestyle crown with a pool-record time of 41.50 seconds while earning silver in the 50-yard freestyle (19.02 seconds). He also swam leadoff legs on Cal's victorious 200-yard freestyle relay and anchor positions on the winning 400-yard freestyle and 400-yard medley relay squads, helping the team secure second place overall behind . Adrian capped his collegiate career in 2011 by repeating as in the 50-yard freestyle (18.66 seconds, an American record) and winning the 100-yard freestyle for the third consecutive year in 41.10 seconds. He contributed to Cal's sweep of the sprint freestyle relays, including leadoff on the winning 200-yard freestyle and anchor on the victorious 400-yard freestyle and 400-yard medley units, plays that were pivotal in securing the Bears' first NCAA title since 2007. Adrian's sprint prowess and relay reliability were central to Cal's emerging dynasty, which saw the program claim national championships in 2011 and 2012 while producing multiple Olympians.

Short course and Pan Pacific successes pre-2008

Nathan Adrian made his international debut at the 2006 FINA World Short Course Swimming Championships in Shanghai, where he contributed to the United States' silver medal in the 4×100-meter medley relay by swimming in the preliminaries. Earlier that year, at the 2006 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships in Victoria, Canada, Adrian contributed to the U.S. team's gold medal in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay during the heats, helping set a world record time of 3:12.23. Adrian's breakthrough came at the 2008 FINA World Short Course Swimming Championships in , , where he claimed gold in the 100-meter freestyle with a championship-record time of 46.67 seconds. He further contributed to the U.S. team's success by earning gold in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay (3:08.44) and silver in the 4×100-meter medley relay (3:24.38), often anchoring legs that propelled the relays to strong finishes. During his freshman year at the , Adrian refined his underwater technique and starts specifically for short-course meters pools, which allowed him to set personal bests and adapt to the faster turns and walls.

Transition to professional swimming

Following his win at the 2008 Olympics, Nathan Adrian returned to the , to complete his sophomore year academically, having taken a after his freshman year to train full-time for the Games. This Olympic success marked the start of his professional career, as he balanced collegiate studies with elite-level competition, ultimately graduating in 2012 with a degree in . The financial demands of full-time training prompted Adrian to secure sponsorships early in his pro transition; he signed with in 2008, which provided essential support to forgo other employment and dedicate himself to . This deal, along with others, enabled him to maintain a rigorous schedule without the constraints of amateur status. After graduation, Adrian joined the professional post-graduate training group at Cal Aquatics, continuing to work under coach Dave Durden, who had guided him during his collegiate years. His regimen evolved to emphasize sprint power, incorporating up to 50,000 meters of weekly volume across multiple daily sessions, typically 5-8 kilometers each, five days a week, combined with to enhance explosive starts and turns.

International competitive career

2008 Beijing Olympics

Adrian qualified for the 2008 U.S. Olympic team by finishing fourth in the men's 100-meter freestyle at the U.S. Olympic Trials in , with a time of 48.46 seconds. This performance secured his place on the 4×100-meter freestyle squad, marking his debut on the international Olympic stage at age 19. In Beijing, Adrian competed in the preliminary heats of the men's 4×100-meter freestyle relay on August 10, swimming the leadoff leg for the American team alongside Cullen Jones, Ben Wildman-Tobriner, and Matt Grevers. His split of 48.82 seconds contributed to a heat-winning time of 3:12.23, advancing the U.S. to the final. The final, held the next day, featured a reconfigured lineup of Michael Phelps (47.51 seconds on the second leg), Garrett Weber-Gale (47.02 seconds on the first), Jones (47.65 seconds on the third), and anchor Jason Lezak, who delivered a stunning 46.06-second leg to overcome a deficit against France. The team set a world record of 3:08.24 to claim gold, with Adrian earning a share of the medal for his preliminary effort. The relay victory highlighted strong team dynamics, as the prelim and final swimmers' combined efforts propelled the U.S. to its first gold in since , redeeming a disappointing performance. This triumph represented Adrian's first and significantly elevated his profile as an emerging sprint freestyle specialist.

2009–2011 World Championships era

Following his Olympic debut in 2008, Nathan Adrian entered a dominant phase in sprint freestyle events at major international competitions. At the 2009 FINA World Championships in , he anchored the to gold in the 4×100 m freestyle relay on July 26, contributing a 46.79-second split to the team's winning time of 3:09.21. Adrian also participated in the 4×100 m medley relay final on August 2, helping secure another gold with a time of 3:27.28. In the individual 100 m freestyle, he claimed on July 30 with a time of 47.91 seconds, finishing behind Alain Bernard of and César Cielo of . In 2010, Adrian excelled at the Pan Pacific Championships in , where he won gold in the 50 m freestyle on August 21 with a championship record of 21.55 seconds, edging out by 0.02 seconds. He also captured gold in the 100 m freestyle on August 19, touching first in 48.15 seconds after a strong final 10 meters to overtake Cielo. Adrian anchored both the 4×100 m freestyle relay to gold on August 20 (3:11.74) and the 4×100 m medley relay to gold on August 21, showcasing his reliability in team events. These performances helped establish him as the top American sprinter, with multiple golds underscoring his versatility in short-course and long-course formats. Adrian's momentum carried into the 2011 FINA World Championships in , where he anchored the 4×100 m medley to gold on July 31, delivering a 47.64-second split for a winning time of 3:32.06 that set an American record in textile suits. In the 4×100 m freestyle on July 24, he swam the anchor leg in 47.40 seconds as the earned bronze in 3:11.96, finishing behind and . Although he placed sixth in the individual 100 m freestyle final on July 28 with 48.28 seconds, Adrian's contributions highlighted his consistency, as the U.S. teams relied on his strong finishes to in both events. Over this era, Adrian's anchoring role in became pivotal, with the setting national benchmarks in sprint events that built toward future Olympic success.

2012 London Olympics

At the 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials held in , Nathan Adrian secured his spots in both the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle events by winning the finals of each. In the 50-meter freestyle final on July 1, he touched first in 21.74 seconds, edging out teammate by 0.04 seconds. Two days earlier, on June 29, Adrian claimed the 100-meter freestyle title with a time of 47.86 seconds, qualifying him as a top contender for the individual sprint. Adrian's Olympic campaign began with the men's 4×100-meter freestyle on July 29 at Centre, where he swam the leadoff leg in 47.89 seconds to give the an early lead. Despite a challenging handover and slower middle legs from (48.20 seconds) and (47.92 seconds), anchor delivered a strong 47.49 seconds, but the team ultimately earned silver in 3:10.91 after France's anchored a comeback win in 3:09.93—a decided by 0.98 seconds. The loss highlighted synchronization issues within the , yet the American squad demonstrated resilience in maintaining a competitive position throughout. Three days later, on , Adrian captured his first individual Olympic gold in the 100-meter freestyle, clocking 47.52 seconds in a dramatic against Australia's defending world champion , who took silver by just 0.01 seconds. The victory marked a breakthrough for Adrian, solidifying his status as one of the world's elite sprinters following his relay golds at the 2011 World Championships. He closed out the Games on August 4 by anchoring the men's 4×100-meter medley relay to gold in a world-record time of 3:27.28, splitting 46.96 seconds to hold off —his third medal of and second relay triumph of the meet. These performances added three Olympic medals to his collection from , further establishing Adrian as a cornerstone of U.S. sprint .

2013–2016 World Championships and Rio Olympics

At the in , , Nathan Adrian secured a as part of the team in the men's 4×100-meter freestyle relay, finishing in 3:12.86 behind France's world record-setting performance. He also earned a in the individual 100-meter freestyle event, touching the wall in 47.84 seconds after a strong final 50-meter split of 25.46 seconds. These results highlighted Adrian's continued prowess in sprint freestyle events following his successes at the 2012 London Olympics. Adrian's form carried into the in , , where he anchored the U.S. men's 4×100-meter freestyle to with a time of 3:10.81, establishing a new American record and defeating by 0.75 seconds. His of 47.29 seconds was pivotal in maintaining the lead, showcasing his explosive closing speed that had become a hallmark of his contributions. Entering the in Rio de Janeiro, Adrian served as anchor for the U.S. men's 4×100-meter freestyle relay, delivering a 46.97-second split to secure in 3:09.92, outpacing by 0.61 seconds in a race that marked ' final competitive . In the medley relay, he again anchored, splitting 46.78 seconds to help the team set an Olympic record of 3:27.95 for , underscoring his role in elevating team performances through raw speed on the freestyle leg. Individually, Adrian claimed in the 50-meter freestyle final with a time of 21.49 seconds, finishing just 0.08 seconds behind silver medalist . He also earned an individual in the 100-meter freestyle, finishing third with a time of 47.85 seconds.

2017–2019 Pan Pacific and World Championships

Following the 2016 Rio Olympics, Nathan Adrian adjusted his training regimen to address recovery challenges associated with aging into his late 20s, incorporating more dryland work and reduced volume to sustain performance without . These modifications helped him maintain competitiveness heading into 2017 and 2018, though he noted ongoing adaptations to manage physical demands. At the 2018 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships in , Adrian anchored the U.S. men's 4×100 m medley to with a 47.71 split on the freestyle leg, edging by 0.05 seconds for a winning time of 3:30.20. He did not medal individually, finishing 10th in the 100 m freestyle with a B-final time of 48.32 after prelims of 48.47, but his contribution highlighted his enduring strength. In 2019, Adrian competed at the in , , earning multiple gold medals in relay events despite emerging health challenges that began with a in . He anchored the U.S. mixed 4×100 m freestyle relay to gold in a Pan Am record 3:30.93 and the men's 4×100 m medley relay to another gold in 3:30.25, a meet record, while taking silver in the 100 m freestyle (48.32). These performances underscored his sprint prowess and team leadership. Later that year at the in , , Adrian anchored the U.S. to gold in the men's 4×100 m freestyle with a 47.08 split, setting a championship record of 3:09.06 and securing his Olympic qualification. In the 4×100 m medley , he split 47.60 on the as the U.S. earned silver in 3:28.45, narrowly overtaken by Great Britain's European record 3:28.10. These results demonstrated his resilience amid health issues, contributing to the U.S. team's overall success.

2020 Tokyo Olympics

The in were postponed to 2021 due to the global , extending Nathan Adrian's preparation period as he aimed for a fourth Olympic appearance following his recovery from diagnosed in early 2019. Adrian, who had returned to elite competition at the 2019 World Championships, faced disrupted training routines amid pool closures and health protocols, yet drew on his cancer experience to adapt mentally and physically to the uncertainties. He trained at the , incorporating modified sessions focused on maintaining speed and endurance while prioritizing safety measures like limited group sizes and frequent testing. At the 2021 U.S. Olympic Trials held in , Adrian competed in the 100-meter freestyle, advancing from the heats with a time of 48.37 seconds but finishing 13th overall in the semifinals at 48.92 seconds, missing the final by less than 0.2 seconds. He also swam the 50-meter freestyle, placing third in the final with a time of 21.73 seconds behind and Michael Andrew, though only the top two qualified for individual events. Despite strong showings that positioned him as a potential relay contributor, Adrian was not selected for any events on the U.S. team, ending his bid for . In post-trials interviews, Adrian expressed positivity about his effort, reflecting on the journey from cancer recovery through pandemic challenges as a source of personal growth, even as the outcome marked the closure of his Olympic competitive era. He emphasized for the opportunity to compete at age 32 and the support from his family, including his young daughter, viewing the trials as a fitting, if bittersweet, capstone to his professional career.

Retirement and legacy

Announcement and immediate aftermath

Following his third-place finish in the 50-meter freestyle at the 2021 U.S. Olympic Trials, which prevented qualification for the Tokyo Games, Nathan Adrian began openly discussing the end of his elite competitive career. In a post-trials interview with SwimSwam, he described the outcome as "not what I was hoping for, certainly," while expressing pride in the emerging talent and a sense of closure after nearly two decades at the top level. Adrian's decision to step away stemmed from the cumulative physical toll of his long career, compounded by the aftermath of his 2019 diagnosis and treatment. The illness required and , leading to significant and prolonged recovery that impacted his performance and motivation for . In a 2023 NBC Sports interview, he explained that the relentless demands of professional no longer aligned with his priorities, particularly as a to two young children born in 2021 and 2022. Immediate media reactions highlighted Adrian's graceful transition, with features in Swimming World Magazine praising his resilience and contributions to the sport. He shared reflections in a May 2022 AMA, where he addressed fans' questions about a potential return but emphasized focusing on family and new business ventures, signaling an effective from elite competition. NBC coverage post-trials lauded his sportsmanship, noting a heartfelt social media post congratulating the qualifiers. Throughout these discussions, Adrian underscored the handover to the next generation of American sprinters, specifically citing as a leader poised to dominate freestyle events. In various interviews, he expressed excitement about mentoring younger athletes through his co-owned AC Swim Club, viewing his exit as an opportunity for talents like Dressel to elevate the sport further.

Post-retirement endeavors

Following his retirement from competitive swimming after failing to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics at the U.S. Olympic Trials, Nathan Adrian expanded his AC Swim Club, a youth swim program emphasizing community, , and enjoyment rather than medal pursuits, building on its founding in 2019 and further growth during the to foster a supportive environment for young athletes. This venture expanded from his earlier involvement in with the Westside Aquaducks swim club, where he and partner Will Copeland transitioned a lesson-based into a full USA Swimming-affiliated team focused on holistic growth. Adrian has taken on coaching and mentorship roles, including leading sessions for junior swimmers through AC Swim Club, where he prioritizes team culture, , and fun over elite performance metrics. He also serves as a mentor at the Cal Bears Winter Swim Camp, providing guidance to undergraduate swimmers alongside other Olympic alumni, drawing on his experience as a former standout. In media and broadcasting, Adrian has contributed commentary for NCAA swimming events, including a 2025 preview discussion on the championships where he shared insights on college dynamics and . He has made notable podcast appearances, such as on The Ready State in June 2025, addressing his cancer survivorship, athletic legacy, and transition to . In 2025, Adrian appeared on the reality series ': World's Toughest Test' Season 3. Adrian balances these professional pursuits with family life as a father of two daughters, integrating fatherhood into his by emphasizing resilience and purpose beyond sports, as highlighted in his 2025 interviews.

Impact on swimming and awards

Nathan Adrian's contributions to have solidified his status as a pivotal figure in the United States' dominance in sprint freestyle events, particularly through his individual and performances that helped elevate American sprinting on the global stage. As a specialist in the 100-meter freestyle, he secured the Olympic gold in 2012, marking the first American victory in the event since 1988 and setting a benchmark for subsequent U.S. sprinters. His consistent excellence, including multiple world championship medals in sprint events, contributed to a era of U.S. supremacy, where Team USA won numerous golds in 4x100-meter freestyle and medley relays across Olympics and World Championships. Adrian's legacy extends beyond the pool as an inspiration for cancer survivors in sports, having openly shared his 2019 diagnosis and recovery from while continuing to compete at elite levels, including attempting to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics. His resilience has motivated others facing similar health challenges, emphasizing early detection and the role of athletics in mental and physical recovery. He has advocated for awareness, using his platform to promote regular checkups and destigmatize discussions around illness in high-performance environments. In terms of , played a leadership role on Team USA, serving as co-captain in and sharing insights on strategies that underscored the "stronger together" , where mutual support during grueling training translates to unbreakable team performance in competition. He credited veterans like for instilling confidence and execution under pressure, influencing younger swimmers' approach to relays. Additionally, has highlighted the importance of initiatives in swimming, noting USA Swimming's post- programs that supported athletes' well-being amid the sport's intense demands. Adrian's statistical impact includes five Olympic gold medals (one individual and four in relays), alongside 19 World Aquatics Championships medals (12 golds, 5 silvers, 2 bronzes). His honors reflect this enduring influence, including induction into the Robert Chinn Foundation's Asian Hall of Fame in 2014 for his trailblazing as an Asian-American athlete, the Athletics Hall of Fame in 2022, and the Washington Sports Hall of Fame in 2023.

Records and statistics

Olympic medals summary

Nathan Adrian amassed eight Olympic medals over four appearances, comprising five golds, one silver, and two bronzes, with a strong emphasis on relay events where he contributed to five of those medals. His Olympic career showcased his prowess as a sprint freestyle specialist and reliable relay anchor for the . At the 2008 Olympics, Adrian earned a as part of the victorious U.S. 4×100 m freestyle team and a bronze in the individual 100 m freestyle. In the 2012 London Olympics, he secured in the 100 m freestyle, silver in the 4×100 m freestyle , and in the 4×100 m medley . Adrian's most decorated Games came in 2016 at Rio de Janeiro, where he claimed two individual bronzes in the 50 m and 100 m freestyle events, alongside golds in both the 4×100 m freestyle and 4×100 m medley .
YearGamesEventMedal
20084×100 m freestyle Gold
2008100 m freestyleBronze
2012100 m freestyleGold
20124×100 m freestyle Silver
20124×100 m medley Gold
2016Rio de Janeiro50 m freestyleBronze
2016Rio de Janeiro100 m freestyleBronze
2016Rio de Janeiro4×100 m freestyle Gold
2016Rio de Janeiro4×100 m medley Gold

Personal best times

Nathan Adrian specialized in sprint freestyle events throughout his career, achieving his lifetime personal bests primarily in the 50 m and 100 m freestyle during his peak period from 2012 to 2017. These times underscored his status as one of the world's top sprinters, with multiple American records set along the way. After battling diagnosed in 2018, Adrian returned to elite competition in 2019 and posted strong performances at the 2021 U.S. Olympic Trials, including 21.73 in the 50 m freestyle and 48.33 in the 100 m freestyle, earning a spot on the Olympic relay team despite not qualifying for individual events. The following table summarizes his lifetime best times in key freestyle sprint events (relay leadoffs noted where applicable):
EventTimeDateMeetLocationCourse
50 m freestyle21.37 sAugust 7, 2015FINA World ChampionshipsKazan, RussiaLCM
100 m freestyle47.52 sAugust 1, 2012, LCM
50 m freestyle20.71 sDecember 18, 2009Duel in the Pool, SCM
100 m freestyle45.08 sDecember 19, 2009Duel in the Pool, SCM (relay leadoff)
These personal bests are recorded by , with the 50 m SCM time verified as his fastest despite being unofficial. Adrian's 21.37 in the 50 m freestyle LCM, swum at the 2015 FINA World Championships, established a former American record that highlighted his explosive speed.

World and American records

Nathan Adrian has contributed to numerous world and American records throughout his career, with a particular emphasis on events where his freestyle legs often provided crucial speed. His record-setting performances span both long course meters (LCM) and short course meters (SCM), showcasing his versatility and impact on American . While individual records are notable, Adrian's contributions highlight his role in team successes that pushed global and national benchmarks. In LCM events, Adrian was part of the U.S. men's 4×100m freestyle team that set a in the heats at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, leading off with a 48.82 split for a team time of 3:12.23. He also anchored the U.S. men's 4×100m medley to an Olympic record of 3:27.95 at the 2016 Rio Olympics, splitting 46.74 on the freestyle leg as the team—Ryan Murphy, , , and Adrian—outpaced the field. Additionally, Adrian led off the U.S. mixed 4×100m freestyle with a 47.86 split to set a of 3:19.60 at the 2017 World Championships in , marking the first global mark in the event. On the individual front, Adrian established the American record in the 100m freestyle with a 47.51 leadoff split during the U.S. 4×100m freestyle at the 2010 Pan Pacific Championships in , helping the team to gold in 3:11.74. Adrian's short course achievements include multiple world records in relays. He anchored the U.S. men's 4×100m medley to a of 3:20.71 at the 2009 Duel in the Pool in , , with a 45.56 split. Earlier that year, at the same meet, he led off the men's 4×100m freestyle for another of 3:03.30, splitting 45.08. In SCM events, Adrian set the American record in the 100m freestyle with 45.08 during that 2009 leadoff.
EventTypeTimeDateLocationRoleDuration Held
Men's 4×100m freestyle (LCM, heats)3:12.23August 10, 2008Beijing OlympicsLead-off (48.82)1 day (broken in final)
Men's 4×100m medley (LCM)Olympic Record3:27.95August 13, 2016Rio Olympics (46.74)Ongoing (as of 2025)
Mixed 4×100m freestyle (LCM)3:19.60July 29, 2017 World ChampionshipsLead-off (47.86)Until 2021
100m freestyle (LCM, relay leadoff)American Record47.51August 20, 2010Irvine Pan Pacific ChampionshipsLead-offUntil 2019
Men's 4×100m medley (SCM)3:20.71December 18, 2009 Duel in the Pool (45.56)Until 2014
Men's 4×100m freestyle (SCM)3:03.30December 19, 2009 Duel in the PoolLead-off (45.08)Until 2018
100m freestyle (SCM)American Record45.08December 19, 2009 Duel in the PoolIndividual/relayUntil 2018 (tied 2020)
50m freestyle (LCM)American Record21.37August 7, 2015 World ChampionshipsIndividualUntil 2021
Over the , Adrian was involved in several other American relay records, including updates to the 4×100m freestyle and medley relays in both courses, often serving as anchor or leadoff to shave seconds off national marks during major competitions like Pan Pacifics and World Championships. These achievements underscore his total impact, with over 10 records set or co-held across formats, emphasizing his reliability in high-stakes team swims.

Personal life

Family and relationships

Nathan Adrian met his future wife, Hallie Ivester, through connections in the competitive swimming and diving community; she was a diver at while Adrian swam for the . The couple became engaged in May 2017 and married on September 15, 2018, in an outdoor ceremony in Napa Valley, California. Adrian and Ivester welcomed their first child, daughter Parker Jacquelyn Adrian, on February 9, 2021. Their second daughter, James Adrian, arrived on August 25, 2022. Following his retirement from competitive swimming, Adrian has emphasized prioritizing family life with his wife and daughters in . Throughout Adrian's career, Hallie Adrian served as a key supporter, accompanying him to major competitions including the Olympics and providing emotional backing during high-stakes events. She has been described as integral to his personal and professional balance, helping manage aspects of his post-competition schedule. Adrian was born the youngest of three siblings to parents Jim and Cecilia Adrian in ; his father is a retired nuclear engineer turned real estate investor, and his mother, originally from , is a retired school nurse. His older sister, Donella, swam collegiately at and works as a physician's assistant in Tacoma, while his older brother, Justin, competed at and now coaches high school swim teams in Bremerton. The Adrian family has remained closely involved in his achievements, with Jim and Cecilia frequently attending meets and expressing pride in his accomplishments, and siblings offering ongoing encouragement.

Health challenges and recovery

In 2019, Nathan Adrian was diagnosed with following a routine medical check-up and flu shot that prompted further testing. The diagnosis revealed stage I cancer that had potentially spread to , leading to immediate treatment. Adrian underwent to remove his left at the end of 2019, followed by a retroperitoneal dissection (RPLND) in February 2019 to address any spread, with no required due to early detection. His PET scans returned clean in April 2019, confirming no remaining cancer. The health challenges significantly disrupted Adrian's 2019 competitive season, as he paused training for recovery from the abdominal surgeries, which affected his muscle and core strength essential for sprint swimming. Despite this, he returned to competition ahead of the in July 2019, contributing to a in the 4x100m freestyle relay before achieving full physical clearance. The ordeal also imposed a substantial emotional toll, challenging his through fears of recurrence, body changes, and the pressure of maintaining elite performance amid vulnerability. Adrian has described returning to the pool as crucial for rebuilding his during this period. Adrian's recovery progressed steadily, allowing him to resume full training by mid-2019 and earning medical clearance for the 2020 U.S. Olympic Trials (postponed to June due to the ). By early , he was in full remission, with ongoing surveillance confirming sustained cancer-free status, enabling him to compete at the U.S. Olympic Trials (postponed from 2020 due to the ), where he placed third in the 50-meter freestyle. Throughout his recovery, Adrian became an advocate for early detection of , emphasizing routine self-exams and medical check-ups to improve outcomes for others. In 2025, reflecting on his long-term survivorship in podcasts, Adrian discussed the ongoing psychological aspects of his experience, including navigating issues post-surgery and the broader lessons of resilience in life beyond athletics.

Philanthropy and advocacy

Following his 2019 diagnosis with , Nathan Adrian became a prominent advocate for and cancer awareness, partnering with the Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation to share his personal story and promote early detection. In interviews and podcasts, such as the 2022 "It Takes Balls" episode, Adrian emphasized breaking the stigma around discussing health issues, drawing from his own experience to encourage regular self-exams among men. He has also collaborated with organizations like the Ulman Cancer Control Foundation, participating in events like the 2023 "Cancer Interrupted" series to support young adult survivors. Adrian has dedicated significant efforts to youth swimming programs, particularly through the Foundation's Make a Splash initiative, which provides free or low-cost lessons to underprivileged children to prevent . As an ambassador since at least 2015, he has joined annual tours, including stops in 2022 and 2023, where he conducted clinics, school visits, and demonstrations to highlight water safety's importance in underserved communities. Complementing this, Adrian co-owns the AC Swim Club in , founded in 2018, which offers accessible swim lessons for children from toddlers to teens, fostering skills and confidence in diverse groups. These programs align with his belief that equitable access to swimming education can save lives, especially in areas with limited resources. Beyond cancer and youth initiatives, Adrian supports broader charitable causes, serving as an ambassador for since the early to promote education and health through sport in disadvantaged regions. He has attended fundraising events and leveraged his platform to raise awareness for the organization's work. In 2017, Adrian partnered with the Jessie Rees Foundation's Never Ever Give Up program, visiting children battling cancer to deliver encouragement and gifts. Additionally, during the 2020 , he led auctions of signed memorabilia to benefit disaster relief funds, contributing to immediate community support efforts. In recent years, Adrian has expanded his advocacy through speaking engagements at universities and events, focusing on resilience, , and overcoming adversity based on his athletic and health journeys. A May 2025 appearance highlighted these themes, inspiring audiences on post-Olympic life and recovery. Through such platforms, he continues to motivate young people and survivors, emphasizing perseverance in the face of challenges.

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  61. https://swimswam.com/nathan-adrian-gives-heartfelt-analysis-of-100-free-semi-final/
  62. https://www.olympics.com/en/news/us-olympic-swimming-team-trials-results
  63. https://swimswam.com/nathan-adrian-on-2021-trials-not-what-i-was-hoping-for-certainly/
  64. https://www.nbcolympics.com/news/nathan-adrian-fails-qualify-100m-free-finals-stays-positive
  65. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/2650507/2021/06/15/nathan-adrian-olympics-cancer/
  66. https://www.nbcsports.com/olympics/news/nathan-adrian-swimming
  67. https://thereadystate.com/blogs/nathan-adrian-podcast/
  68. https://www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/news/nathan-adrian-missing-tokyo-would-be-huge-loss-for-team-usa/
  69. https://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/ulv6xj/im_nathan_adrian_an_eighttime_olympic_medalist/
  70. https://www.essentiallysports.com/olympic-swimming-news-nathan-adrian-wins-hearts-on-twitter-after-failing-to-qualify-for-tokyo-olympics-2021-did-nathan-adrian-qualify-usa-swimming/
  71. https://swimswam.com/7-things-we-learned-from-nathan-adrians-ama/
  72. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPp0hSFPrwo
  73. https://swimswam.com/nathan-adrian-will-copeland-take-over-westside-aquaducks-hire-hiett-as-coach/
  74. https://www.ussportscamps.com/swim/cal/california-winter-swim-camp
  75. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FTbZzjyUek
  76. https://swimswam.com/bloodied-by-cam-newton-nathan-adrian-exits-special-forces-reality-series/
  77. https://www.olympics.com/en/athletes/nathan-adrian
  78. https://www.usaswimming.org/news/2021/05/20/asian-american-and-pacific-islander-heritage-month-trailblazers-nathan-adrian
  79. https://ulmanfoundation.org/cancer-interrupted-with-doug-ulman-and-nathan-adrian/
  80. https://www.olympics.com/en/news/nathan-adrian-interview-usa-swimming-success-secret
  81. https://olympics.com/en/athletes/nathan-adrian
  82. https://olympics.com/en/olympic-games/london-2012/results/swimming/100m-freestyle-men
  83. https://www.nbcolympics.com/news/nathan-adrian-finishes-third-50m-freestyle-trials-misses-out-tokyo-olympics
  84. https://swimswam.com/8-times-fastest-u-s-swim-ever-isnt-american-record/
  85. https://www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/news/nathan-adrian-thrilled-to-finally-capture-50-free-american-record-sw-radio/
  86. https://www.france24.com/en/20080810-us-breaks-mens-4x100m-freestyle-world-record-olympics-beijing-2008
  87. https://swimswam.com/watch-murphy-miller-phelps-adrian-win-gold-400-medley-relay/
  88. https://www.swimrecords.net/lcm_men_us_open/
  89. https://www.calbears.com/sports/mens-swimming-and-diving/roster/nathan-adrian/7959
  90. https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/olympian-nathan-adrian-tells-us-210040854.html
  91. https://swimswam.com/nathan-adrian-announces-engagement-girlfriend-hallie-ivester/
  92. https://people.com/sports/olympic-swimmer-nathan-adrian-marries-hallie-ivester/
  93. https://people.com/parents/olympic-swimmer-nathan-adrian-wife-hallie-welcome-daughter-parker/
  94. https://people.com/parents/olympic-swimmer-nathan-adrian-wife-hallie-welcome-second-baby-together-daughter-brooklyn/
  95. https://marinmagazine.com/community/sports/olympic-gold-medalist-nathan-adrian-dives-into-life-in-marin-running-the-ac-swim-club-and-navigating-parenthood/
  96. https://www.facebook.com/NathanAdrianOfficial/posts/honored-to-be-on-the-cover-of-parents-magazines-july-issue-hallie-adrian-and-i-a/356796895810115/
  97. https://www.nbcolympics.com/news/meet-athletes-nathan-adrian
  98. https://archive.kitsapsun.com/news/a-moment-to-remember-for-adrian-family-ep-417288341-356594921.html
  99. https://www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/news/nathan-adrian-ready-for-racing-return-after-testicular-cancer-battle/
  100. https://www.medpagetoday.com/popmedicine/celebritydiagnosis/92180
  101. https://cancerwellness.com/nathan-adrian-summer-2022-cov/
  102. https://swimswam.com/nathan-adrians-pet-scans-come-back-clean-back-to-real-life/
  103. https://www.worldaquatics.com/news/1908509/nathan-adrian-discusses-his-first-three-months-with-testicular-cancer
  104. https://www.espn.com/olympics/story/_/id/27330347/us-swimmer-nathan-adrian-continues-comeback-cancer-diagnosis
  105. https://apnews.com/nathan-adrian-life-before-medal-gold-as-he-fights-cancer-4b80de80e96041cfa9afed15a421d959
  106. https://www.nbcsports.com/olympics/news/nathan-adrian-swimming-cancer
  107. https://ex.movember.com/story/view/id/12036/olympic-swimmer-nathan-adrian-on-his-testicular-cancer-diagnosis-and-the-importance-of-early-detection
  108. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIUOJlCNaGg
  109. https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/blog/nathan-adrian-it-takes-balls-podcast-guest
  110. https://aballsysenseoftumor.com/pcl47-nathan-adrian-eight-olympic-medals-one-ball-and-a-new-important-goal/
  111. https://www.usaswimming.org/news/2021/05/25/nathan-adrian-makes-a-splash-by-discussing-the-importance-of-swim-lessons
  112. https://people.com/sports/olympian-nathan-adrian-wants-swimming-taught-in-schools-so-important/
  113. https://righttoplay.com/en/ambassadors/nathan-adrian/
  114. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRqdtU0XvWE
  115. https://www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/news/nathan-adrian-leading-fundraising-for-covid-19-relief/
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