Overview
- In June scans revealed stress fractures and bone oedema in Mollie O'Callaghan's lumbar spine and she was told to stop swimming and miss the trials, the Commonwealth Games and the Pan Pacs.
- Despite that diagnosis she returned to contest the Australian trials and won the 100m and 200m freestyle finals.
- Following further assessment by a spinal specialist after the trials she was cleared to compete in Glasgow and is listed for the 100m and 200m freestyle, 50m backstroke and several relays, though her program may be altered for recovery.
- Her announcement comes as the Australian team faces other disruptions, with Kaylee McKeown withdrawing with glandular fever and Shayna Jack announcing her retirement, reducing depth and leadership options.
- With the Pan Pacific Championships scheduled about two weeks after Glasgow, Swimming Australia and medical staff will need careful load management to protect O'Callaghan's recovery and long‑term career prospects.