USA Swimming announces 2026 Golden Goggle Award nominees

USA Swimming has announced the nominees for the 2026 Golden Goggle Awards, following a significant performance by the United States at the Pan Pacific Championships in Irvine, California. The awards ceremony is scheduled for September 26 in Denver, Colorado.

The 23rd annual event features six categories: Female Athlete of the Year, Male Athlete of the Year, Coach of the Year, Open Water Swimmer of the Year, Relay Performance of the Year, and Breakout Performer of the Year. Notable nominees for Female Athlete of the Year include Katharine Berkoff, Kate Douglass, Katie Ledecky, and Gretchen Walsh.

Public voting is currently open and will conclude on Sunday, September 6, at 11:59 p.m. MT. Proceeds from the event benefit the USA Swimming Foundation, which provides grants for learn-to-swim programs, community impact, and support for the U.S. National Team.