Joshua

Liendo

Joshua Liendo made history at the 2024 Paris Olympics as the first Black Canadian swimmer to win an Olympic medal, earning silver in the 100m butterfly. Now one of Canada’s top swimmers, he combines elite talent with relentless drive on the world stage.

At the NCAA level, Liendo built one of the most dominant careers ever by a Canadian, winning nine individual titles and securing four straight national titles in the 100 yard freestyle, a feat last achieved by Caeleb Dressel. He also set an NCAA record in the 100 yard butterfly and never finished lower than second in an individual race.

Looking ahead, Joshua is focused on World Championships, world records, and the 2028 Olympics.

Joshua Liendo, A male swimmer wearing sunglasses, a black swim cap, and a black vest adjusts his swim goggles during a competition.

Joshua Liendo, A male swimmer in a black swim cap and goggles stands on the pool deck, shirtless and wearing black swim trunks, with his hands on his hips, looking determined.

My number one goal is to swim fast. And my number two goal is to compete. My aim is always to win.

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Joshua Liendo, A swimmer standing on the pool deck holding a Canadian flag and a trophy, wearing a medal around his neck, with a swimming competition pool and spectators in the background.

Joshua Liendo, Young man wearing a beige cap and a white t-shirt with brown sleeves, standing on a residential sidewalk, making a peace sign with his right hand, with parked cars, green trees, stairs, and houses in the background.

Liendo’s success is a landmark moment for diversity in Canadian swimming. As the first Black Canadian swimmer to reach the Olympic podium, he is an inspiration for young athletes across the country, showing that barriers can be broken. Joshua Liendo is a powerhouse in the pool, but there’s so much more to him than his lightning-fast strokes. While swimming takes up a huge part of his life, he’s equally committed to his studies, pursuing health behaviour education at the University of Florida.

For Joshua, it’s about thinking ahead—exploring professional opportunities that lie beyond the sport he loves. His creative side shines just as brightly with a background in string instruments and a newfound passion for making beats. But when it’s time to compete, there’s no mistaking Joshua’s fire whether it’s a tough weight room session or a heated Mario Kart match, he doesn’t just want to win—he needs to. Balanced, driven, and endlessly versatile, Joshua Liendo is not just an elite athlete but a true standout in every lane of life.