Canadian · Laval, Canada · Born 23 January 1997Canadian backstroke swimmer, world record holder and multiple World Championship gold medalist, specializing in 50m and 100m backstroke events.
Born in Windsor, Ontario, on January 23, 1997, Kylie Jacqueline Masse emerged from the University of Toronto's swimming program to become Canada's premier backstroke swimmer. She developed her technique under coach Byron MacDonald at the Varsity Blues, where her explosive underwater phase and technical precision distinguished her from early in her collegiate career. Masse's breakthrough came at the 2017 World Championships in Budapest, where she claimed gold in the 100-meter backstroke and set a new world record of 58.10 seconds. This performance marked the first time a Canadian woman had held a world record in swimming since the 1970s. She followed this triumph with consistent excellence on the international stage, earning multiple World Championship medals and establishing herself as the world's leading backstroker. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Masse secured bronze medals in both the 100m and 200m backstroke events, cementing her status among the sport's elite performers. The defining characteristic of Masse's career has been her remarkable consistency at swimming's highest level. Her world record in the 100m backstroke stood as a testament to her technical mastery, combining powerful underwater dolphin kicks with smooth, efficient stroke mechanics. Beyond individual accolades, she contributed to Canada's relay success and became a fixture on international podiums throughout her peak years. Her achievements represent the finest results in Canadian women's swimming history. Masse's impact extends beyond her medal collection to her role in elevating Canadian swimming's international profile. Her success demonstrated that Canadian athletes could compete with and defeat the world's best in swimming's most technical events. The precision and preparation that characterized her approach to backstroke swimming established new standards for the sport in Canada, inspiring a generation of swimmers and coaches. Her career represents a benchmark for technical excellence and competitive longevity in modern swimming.
100m backstroke world record and world championship
How They Played
Technical backstroke specialist with exceptional underwater phase
Lasting Impact
Pioneer in Canadian backstroke swimming with multiple world records
Career Honours
- World Champion 100m Backstroke 2017
- World Record holder 100m Backstroke
- Olympic Bronze 2020
Canadian Athletes