Olympic Swimmer Lea Polonsky Aims to Break Records at European Championships Ahead of LA 2028

Israeli Olympic swimmer Lea Polonsky has begun competing at the European Swimming Championships in Paris, exactly two years after the 2024 Olympic Games. Polonsky, who won a silver medal in the 2024 European Championships in Belgrade, is using this event as a stepping stone toward qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. She expressed excitement about racing alongside teammate Anastasia Gorbunko again and hopes to replicate their previous success by reaching the finals together.

Polonsky swam in the 100-meter freestyle heats and plans to compete in the 200-meter freestyle, 200-meter butterfly, and 200-meter individual medley events. Reflecting on her Olympic performance, she described it as somewhat disappointing, especially in the 200-meter individual medley, and is determined to improve her results this time. She called this championship a "closing of the circle" and aims to finish on a high note.

The Israeli delegation to the European Championships is relatively large, and Polonsky highlighted the strong team spirit developed during a three-week high-altitude training camp in Italy. She emphasized the camaraderie and enjoyment of competing alongside friends.

Professionally, Polonsky’s goals include breaking personal and national records, advancing through the competition rounds, reaching finals, and winning medals if possible. Looking ahead to the 2028 Olympics, she stressed the importance of achieving the qualifying standard early to reduce pressure and steadily improving her form to peak at the Games.

"I want to break records and get the qualifying time as soon as possible," she said. "That will take a lot of pressure off me. I hope to keep improving and deliver a strong performance in Los Angeles."