While Leon Marchand is the clear favorite, who will win the Men’s 200m Individual Medley in the 2024 Olympics on Thursday morning?
Men’s 200m Individual Medley Odds
According to Fanduel Sportsbook, Leon Marchand is the current favorite at -250, followed by Wang Shun (CHN) is +250. From there, the odds fall off significantly. Carson Foster (USA) is +1500, followed by Shaine Casas (USA) is +2500, Duncan Scott (GBR) is +3100 and Finlay Knox (CAN) is +5500. Hugo Gonzalez (ESP), Tom Dean (GBR) and Daiya Seto (JPN) are +6500, respectively. Alberto Razzetti (ITA) is +8000.
Men’s 200m Individual Medley Key Contenders
Daiya Seto (Japan)
- Strengths: Seto is renowned for his proficiency in the medley events, particularly excelling in the butterfly and breaststroke legs. He has a strong finishing kick in the freestyle.
- Recent Performance: Seto has consistently medaled in international competitions, including World Championships and Olympics. His experience and endurance make him a formidable competitor in the 200m IM.
Men’s 200m Individual Medley Potential Dark Horses
Duncan Scott (Great Britain)
- Strengths: Scott is known for his strong freestyle and backstroke legs. He has the ability to finish races strongly.
- Recent Performance: Scott has shown his versatility in medley events and has been a consistent performer in international meets, including the Tokyo 2020 Olympics where he won multiple medals.
Shun Wang (China)
- Strengths: Wang has shown strong performances in the medley events, particularly in the butterfly and breaststroke legs.
- Recent Performance: Wang has been rising in the ranks with strong showings at Asian and international competitions. He could be a surprise contender.
Men’s 200m Individual Medley Key Factors
Transitions and Turns:
- Smooth transitions between strokes and efficient turns are crucial in the 200m IM. The ability to maintain speed and minimize drag during these phases can make a significant difference.
Stroke Balance:
- Competitors need to be strong in all four strokes. Weakness in any single stroke can put them at a disadvantage.
Endurance and Speed:
- The 200m IM is a sprint medley, requiring a balance of speed and endurance. Swimmers need to maintain a high pace while managing their energy effectively.
Men’s 200m Individual Medley Prediction
The Men’s 200m IM at the 2024 Olympics is expected to be a highly competitive race with several strong contenders. Daiya Seto is intriguing due to his recent performances and strengths in the medley events. However, the race could see surprises from experienced swimmers like a rising star in Duncan Scott.
That said, there’s a reason why Marchand is the favorite and I’m not going against him today.
Men’s 200m Individual Medley Prediction: Leon Marchand -250