The biggest achievement at the swimming World Championships was

... pronouncing Ranomi Kromowidjojo (Netherlands woman sprinter, winner of the 50 freestyle) correctly. That takes practice!

Katie Ledecky's massive volume of work, and four gold medals, was also pretty noteworthy. Her 400 might have even been more impressive than the 1500, because it was the best time ever (including the Olympics) swum in normal suits, and they compete that race at the Olympics. The 1500 world record was impressive, but since the women don't compete that at the Olympics, it doesn't get as many shots at it as the 400 and 800. Ziegler's record was strong, but it was due to fall.

On the men's side, I was impressed with how fast Brazil's Cesar Cielo continues to be, as well as old man sprinter Anthony Ervin of the USA; glad the USA went 1-2 in the 100 backstroke; enthralled by both the 400 freestyle relay and the 100 freestyle (Nathan Adrian's stroke is just plain exciting to watch); and dismayed by the DQ in the men's 400 medley relay. Still, great meet to watch.