Winning isn't everything, but learning from both victory and defeat might just be the secret sauce to success. This is the philosophy that 4x Olympic champion Leon Marchand embodies as he reflects on his training at the University of Texas. At the 2025 Swimming World Cup in Carmel, Indiana, Marchand found himself in a unique position: despite his stellar reputation, he didn’t secure a single win during the first stop of the competition. But here’s where it gets intriguing—he wasn’t just losing; he was learning.
Held from October 10-12, 2025, in the short course meters (SCM) format, the Carmel World Cup was a high-stakes event with fierce competition. Marchand competed in the finals of the 200m backstroke, 200m individual medley, and 200m breaststroke, only to be outswum in two out of three races by his own training partners from Texas. Instead of viewing these losses as setbacks, Marchand embraced them as valuable lessons. “I lose every day,” he remarked. “We learn how to win, learn how to lose.” This mindset underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in elite sports—a lesson that resonates far beyond the pool.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is losing really a necessary part of winning? Some argue that constant defeat can erode confidence, while others believe it builds mental toughness. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
For those eager to catch the action, the World Aquatics World Cup offers multiple viewing options. U.S. viewers can tune in to both prelims and finals on the USA Swimming Network and Peacock. Canadian fans can stream every session on CBC, while European audiences can watch via the Eurovision Sport platform. Globally, the World Aquatics Recast channel provides live and on-demand streaming for just $8.26 USD with a three-day pass. And this is the part most people miss—these platforms ensure that no matter where you are, you can witness the drama and skill of world-class swimming.
Leon Marchand’s journey at Carmel is a testament to the idea that growth often comes from challenges. By turning losses into lessons, he’s not just preparing for the next race—he’s setting a standard for how athletes can approach both success and failure. As we look ahead to future competitions, one thing is clear: Marchand’s philosophy of learning from every outcome will continue to shape his career in profound ways. What lessons from his approach could you apply to your own life? Let’s dive into the conversation!
