FAKTEN & STATISTIKEN

Name

Rafael Miroslaw

Nationality

Germany

Date of birth

March 25 , 2001

Sport

Swimming

Fun fact

Despite his explosive speed in pools, Rafael began swimming competitively at just 8 years old, balancing swimming and schooling - an early start that fueled his Olympic-level success

After a decorated collegiate career at Indiana University - where he became an 18× All-American, he made history as the first German to break 48 seconds in the 100 m freestyle. Now training professionally at Arizona State, Miroslaw continues to post world-class times, including a 1:45.83 in the 200 m and a 46.33 in the 100 m (short course). A fun fact: he credits consistency—not distance—for his performance edge, proving that focus beats volume in elite swimming.
Rafael has steadily emerged as a key figure in German swimming. His international breakthrough came when he placed 5th in the 200 m freestyle at the 2024 World Championships in Fukuoka, clocking an impressive 1:45.84. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, he contributed to Germany’s relay teams, helping them secure finals appearances in both the 4×100 and 4×200 m freestyle relays. These performances solidified his role not only as an individual competitor but as a reliable team asset on the global stage.

Beyond competition, Miroslaw embodies the modern athlete—balancing academics, global training, and elite performance. He earned a management degree at Indiana University before turning pro at Arizona State, following a trend of European swimmers developing through U.S. college systems. Fun fact: he’s known for staying calm before races by listening to classical music.