BUDAPEST - With the 17th edition of the World Aquatics Swimming Championships (25m) getting underway tomorrow and running through the end of the week in the Hungarian capital, we're in for some exciting days in the Duna Arena. With 985 athletes from an event-record 195 countries, here are some of the standout soundbites.

Hubert Kos - Hungary

What does it mean for you to compete in your home pool? 

Swimming in Budapest means a lot to me. This is an incredible opportunity to compete in one of the best pools in the world, and it’s an honour to swim for these amazing fans.

It’s not just about the World Championships; it’s also a chance to spend time with my family. I’m looking forward to the competition but I'm also excited to relax and celebrate the Christmas holidays with them once it’s over.

Is Hungary, and specifically Budapest, ready to host the Olympic Games?

Absolutely! That’s an easy one—we are 100% ready. We have everything we need: world-class infrastructure, incredibly talented athletes, and the best fans in the world.

What does it mean to have your coach, Bob Bowman, here at this meet?

It’s amazing to have Coach Bob here in Budapest. We first met two years ago, in 2022, and that conversation was what inspired me to train in the U.S. It feels like we’ve come full circle. I know he’s excited to be here, and I’m thrilled to have him here too.

Kylie Masse - Canada

Coming off a season with the World Aquatics Championships and Olympic Games in the long course 50m pool, what's it like to now go into the World Championships in the 25m pool?

Swimming in short course competitions is great because it offers variety and allows me to focus on different skills. In the short course pool, I really concentrate on power, speed, and improving my underwater work.

You've raced her in Budapest before. What do you expect it to be back competing in Duna Arena? 

It’s wonderful to be back in this incredible pool and in Budapest. This is my fifth time here since 2017, and every visit has been special. The Hungarian fans are always so supportive, and the energy they bring is amazing. The arena is absolutely world-class, and I’m thrilled to be back competing here.

Kate Douglass - United States

From winning World and Olympic titles to setting World Records on the Swimming World Cup, you've had quite a run recently. How do you keep the performance going so well?

After the Paris Olympic Games, I took a much-needed break from the pool. It was important to recharge before competing in the World Cup events. Following those, I had another short break to reset and refocus.

I like setting short-term goals, and after the World Cup, my focus shifted to preparing for the Short Course World Championships. I’m excited for the competition here, but I’m also looking forward to taking some time off after this meet.

Daiya Seto - Japan 

Daiya, you’ve had an extraordinary career, including holding World Records and an incredible six-consecutive 25m World titles in the 400m Individual Medley. How are you doing coming into the World Aquatics Swimming Championships here in Budapest?

I’m doing well, although I recently had a cracked rib. This competition is very important to me because I’m aiming to win my seventh consecutive title in the 400 IM. I’ll give it my best effort. I really like Hungary, and I’m happy to be racing here again.

Parting Shot