Kayla Sanchez skips backstroke event to focus on Asian Games freestyle gold

Philippine swimmer Kayla Sanchez has withdrawn from the women’s 100-meter backstroke at the Asian Games to focus on the 50-meter freestyle. The decision, made by the national coaching staff at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre, aims to prioritize Sanchez’s recovery and maximize her chances for a gold medal in her signature event.

National coach Ryan Arabejo stated the move was intended to manage factors within the team’s control following Sanchez’s grueling 100-meter freestyle final, where she finished fourth. Sanchez was also pulled from relay duties to ensure she is fully prepared for the upcoming freestyle competition, which represents a significant opportunity to end the Philippines’ 28-year medal drought in Asian Games swimming.