LOUISVILLE, Ky. — She’s making waves in and out of the pool. According to a pair of the top ranking sources, Swimming World and SwimSwam, Louisville native Charlotte Crush is the nation’s top-ranked swimmer in the 2026 class.

Crush has spent a big chunk of her life in the pool; swimming runs in her family. Her parents and siblings all also swim.

“That kind of started my swimming career. And even since then, I’ve kind of grown in that competitiveness and had a desire to be like my siblings in a way,” said Crush.

Crush is a three-time Sacred Heart Academy team state champion. She holds school records in the 100 back, 100 fly, 100 free, and the 200 medley relay. Crush said that her faith keeps her motivated.

“Times where I’m like, swimming is not as rewarding as I want it to be. And I

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