World Junior Record Holder Kuzey Tuncelli Headed to Texas Longhorns
Kuzey Tuncelli has announced he will join the University of Texas.
The Turkish world junior champion, 18, made his announcement on social media.
“I’m excited to share a major step in my career and my life. I’m honored to announce that I will be joining the University of Texas for the next chapter of my journey. I want to thank Bob Bowman, Erik Posegay, and the entire Texas family for giving me this opportunity. My deepest gratitude goes to my coach Aykut Çelik, my club Fenerbahçe, our Federation, and all of our staff — the people who played a huge role in getting me to this point and who will continue this journey with me. A long adventure awaits us. Sending my love and respect to everyone who’s been with me and to all sports fans!” Kuzey Tuncelli wrote on Instagram.
He broke the World Junior record in the 1500 free when he swam a 14:41.22 at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, finishing fifth at age 16. He also finished 11th in the men’s 800 free (7:47.29).
Tuncelli is coming off of a strong performance at the 2025 World Championships. He finished sixth in the 800 freestyle (7:46.01) and 1500 freestyle (14:52.44). He broke the Turkish record during prelims in the 800 (7:45.13).
He was even faster in the 1500 free at the European Junior Championships, going 14:45.05 to win the gold medal. He also won gold in the 800 freestyle in 7:46.01. He also took the bronze in the 400 free (3:49.50).
