Glasgow, 25 July (H.S.): South African swimming star Chad le Clos created history at the Commonwealth Games 2026 by becoming the most decorated male athlete in the history of the Games. He achieved the milestone after winning a bronze medal in the men’s 4×100m freestyle relay event.

In the event held in Glasgow on Friday, the South African team comprising Pieter Coetzee, Guy Brooks, Ruaridh van Renen and Chad le Clos clocked 3 minutes and 13.99 seconds to secure the bronze medal. With this achievement, le Clos’ total medal tally at the Commonwealth Games has reached 19, including seven gold medals.

With this record, he became the most successful male athlete in the history of the prestigious multi-sport event.

After winning the medal, an emotional le Clos said, “I should have been crying for a gold medal, not a bronze, but honestly, this means the world to me. Over the past few years, I have come very close several times but missed out on success and went through difficult phases. In such a time, this medal is unbelievable for me. I am grateful to my family, who have supported me at every step.”

Australia won the gold medal in the event. With six gold, two silver and five bronze medals, Australia continues to lead the medal table with a total of 13 medals. South Africa now has three medals, including one gold and two bronze.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar