30 July 2025 – During a three-day visit to the city-state, IOC President Kirsty Coventry attended the World Aquatics Championships; met athletes, partners and leaders of the Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC); and took part in a number of events celebrating the Olympic values and her long-standing connection to the world of aquatics. She was accompanied throughout the visit by IOC Member in Singapore Ser Miang Ng.
Honoured by the aquatics community
At the World Aquatics General Congress, President Coventry was awarded the World Aquatics Honorary Order, the organisation’s highest distinction. In a surprise moment during the ceremony, Kim Brackin, her long-time coach, joined her on stage — alongside Susie O’Neill, the Australian swimming legend and eight-time Olympic medallist. Their presence added a deeply personal touch to the occasion, honouring not just Coventry’s leadership, but also the journey and relationships that helped shape it.
In her address, President Coventry reflected on her roots in sport and encouraged the aquatics family to continue setting the standard in athlete support and gender equality.
Please continue to push boundaries. Continue to lead by example. This will only strengthen our sport and inspire many generations to come. From the Olympic Movement, we see you as a strong and valued partner. I’m looking forward to a bright future with all of you.
Kirsty Coventry, IOC President
During the same ceremony, South African Sam Ramsamy, IOC Honorary Member and outgoing First Vice-President of World Aquatics, was honoured with the World Aquatics Order of Merit. This was presented by IOC Honorary President Thomas Bach, recognising Ramsamy’s nearly three decades of service and his enduring commitment to sport and equality.
“Sam is passionate about sport, passionate about athletes, passionate about humanity — and above all, he is a great friend,” said Bach. “He didn’t fight only against a system. He fought for people — for humanity — with dignity, empathy and respect. You are a great man, Sam. A great friend. And no one is more deserving of this honour.”
“Sam, I am proud of you. Africa is proud of you. You have united us and made us feel as one,” added President Coventry. “Thank you for all you have done for sport — for uniting people and for standing up for what is right.”
Later that evening, President Coventry joined Singapore’s Head of State, Tharman Shanmugaratnam, at the swimming finals. She presented the medals for the women’s 100m backstroke, a race won by Australia’s Kaylee McKeown — adding Olympic significance to the moment as one Olympic champion honoured another.
A strong partnership with the Olympic Movement in Asia
At a lunch hosted by the SNOC, attended by Olympians, Youth Olympians and representatives of national federations, sponsors and partners, President Coventry spoke of her pride in serving the Olympic Movement and her optimism for the years ahead.
As athletes, we aim to inspire the next generation — and the generation after that. Every person in this room is living that mission. Thank you for ensuring that sport remains a powerful platform for young people to chase their dreams.
Kirsty Coventry, IOC President
“You have a strong supporter in me. My door is always open,” she continued. “We look forward to continuing this journey together and seeing what the future of the Olympic Movement will look like — with all of you by its side.”
The SNOC President and Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, Grace Fu, welcomed President Coventry back to Singapore, recalling her last visit in 2013 as a member of the IOC Athletes’ Commission.
“Your leadership and impact on global sport have continued to grow,” said Fu. “Your presence here today reaffirms our shared commitment to the Olympic ideals.”
A visit rich in symbolism
While in Singapore, President Coventry paid a courtesy visit to President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, during which the two leaders discussed the unifying power of sport and its continued potential to drive positive social impact. She also met Japanese Olympic Committee President Seiko Hashimoto, representatives of the NOC of Uzbekistan, and various IOC Members.
She took part in symbolic cultural ceremonies that underscored the significance of her visit. At the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a new orchid — Dendrobium Kirsty Coventry — was named in her honour. Later, at Gardens by the Bay, a Baobab Tree was dedicated to her — a gesture celebrating her leadership and African heritage.
President Coventry also attended the International Swimming Hall of Fame induction ceremony, where Joseph Schooling, Singapore’s first Olympic champion, was inducted in his home city. World Aquatics President Husain Al-Musallam was also recognised for his decades of leadership in aquatic sport.
