The Dutch Qualifiers Just Got Intense: Thom De Boer Leads the Charge, But Who’s Missing?
The 2025 Dutch Qualifiers, held from October 24th to 26th at the Zwemcentrum Rotterdam, have been nothing short of electrifying. With the Short Course European Championships (SC Euros) on the horizon, swimmers are giving it their all—but not without a few surprises. And this is the part most people miss: while Thom De Boer dominated the men’s 50m freestyle with a blistering 21.31, the absence of Nyls Korstanje due to a back injury has left fans wondering what could have been. But let’s dive into the details—because this event is packed with drama, records, and rising stars.
Day Two Highlights: A Trio of Triumphs in the 50m Freestyle
The men’s 50m freestyle final was a nail-biter, with three swimmers securing SC Euros spots. Thom De Boer, the 33-year-old Olympian, claimed gold with his 21.31 finish, solidifying his position as the #2 Dutch performer in this event. Right on his heels was Kenzo Simons (21.34), followed by Brandon van den Berg (21.37), who had already qualified in the 100m freestyle the night before. But here’s where it gets controversial: De Boer’s time is just a whisper behind Korstanje’s national record of 20.63. Could De Boer have challenged that record if Korstanje had competed? We’ll never know—but it’s a question worth debating.
Women’s 50m Freestyle: Van Roon Leads the Charge
The women’s 50m freestyle was equally thrilling, with Valerie van Roon (23.99) taking gold and securing her spot in the top 10 Dutch performers of all time. Milou van Wijk (24.19) and Tessa Giele (24.20) rounded out the podium, with Giele earning her third SC Euros qualification. Fun fact: Giele’s versatility in the 50m fly, 50m breast, and now the 50m freestyle makes her one to watch in Poland.
Imani de Jong and Marte Hieke van der Kamp Shine in the 400m Freestyle
In the women’s 400m freestyle, Imani de Jong (4:05.26) and Marte Hieke van der Kamp (4:08.54) both punched their tickets to the SC Euros. Van der Kamp, already qualified in the 800m freestyle, proved her endurance prowess. But here’s a thought: With swimmers like Van der Kamp excelling in multiple events, are we witnessing the rise of a new Dutch distance queen?
Maaike de Waard Dominates the 100m Backstroke
The 100m backstroke final was a masterclass by Maaike de Waard, who clocked 56.72—over two seconds ahead of her competitors. Scotland’s Katie Shanahan (59.14) and Lotte Hosper (59.17) completed the podium. Did you know? De Waard’s personal best of 55.86 from 2021 places her as the second-fastest Dutch swimmer ever in this event. Her consistency is unmatched.
Arno Kamminga Returns with a Bang
Two-time Olympic silver medalist Arno Kamminga made his mark in the men’s 100m breaststroke, finishing in 57.31—well under the qualifying time. But here’s the twist: Kamminga recently lost his Dutch short course national records to Caspar Corbeau, the new 200m breast World Record holder. Is this Kamminga’s comeback story, or is Corbeau’s dominance here to stay? Let’s discuss in the comments.
International Stars Steal the Show
The event wasn’t just about Dutch swimmers. Britain’s Duncan Scott dominated the men’s 400m freestyle with a 3:42.43 finish, while Thomas Jansen (4:07.41) outpaced Olympic champion Tom Dean in the 400m IM. Controversial question: Are international swimmers like Scott and Dean overshadowing Dutch talent, or are they pushing local athletes to new heights?
Final Thoughts: Who’s Ready for Poland?
As the dust settles on the 2025 Dutch Qualifiers, one thing is clear: the SC Euros in Poland will be a showdown to remember. From De Boer’s dominance to Kamminga’s resurgence, the Dutch team is shaping up to be a force. But here’s the real question: With Korstanje’s absence and Corbeau’s rise, who will step up as the face of Dutch swimming? Share your predictions below—and let’s keep the debate going!
