Chicago, Ill. -- Former University of Chicago swimmer Jesse Ssengonzi (Class of 2024) continued to make his mark internationally, representing Uganda at the 22nd World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. Facing some of the world's best swimmers, Jesse delivered two personal bests along with new national records for Uganda in his first national event since the 2024 Paris Olympics.

In the 50-meter butterfly, he posted a time of 24.32 seconds, finishing 48th overall. His time of 24.32 was the second-fastest amongst all 20 African competitors, narrowly falling to Oscar Peyre Mitilla from Rwanda who swam a 24.06.

Ssengonzi then broke another national record in the 100-meter butterfly with a time of 53.32 seconds, placing 41st. His time of 53.32 led all 10 African competitors, edging out Raekwon Noel from Guyana with a 53.91.

During his time swimming representing Uganda in the professional ranks, Ssengonzi has broken six different national records in the 100m breaststroke, 200m breaststroke, 200m butterfly, and 200m individual medley to go along with his two new records in the 50m butterfly and 100m butterfly.

During his time with the Maroons, Jesse was a standout performer, earning multiple All-American honors and playing a key role in UChicago's swimming success. He also won a pair of National Championships in the 100 butterfly and the 400 medley relay.

With his six national records and his 31st place finish in the 100m butterfly in the 2024 Paris Olympics, Ssengonzi has become one of the most successful Uganda swimmers in the nation's history. He will now set his sights on the 2026 African Championships next summer.