Russian freediving champion Alexei Molchanov stunned the world on September 25, 2025, by plunging to a breathtaking depth of 126 meters on a single breath, setting a new world record in the constant weight bi-fins (CWTB) discipline. The achievement took place at the prestigious AIDA World Championships held this week in Limassol, Cyprus, where top freedivers from around the globe competed for gold.
Molchanov completed the dive in an astonishing 4 minutes and 46 seconds, combining extraordinary physical endurance with razor-sharp mental focus. “Today it was 126 meters in 4 minutes and 46 seconds,” Molchanov told SportsIn shortly after surfacing, still visibly exhilarated. He emphasized the dual challenge of competing at the highest level while aiming to break records: “You can’t always set a record and win the medal. Achieving both at the same time is the best combination.”
This latest record surpassed his previous bests and reinforced Molchanov’s status as arguably the greatest freediver in history. The sport, governed by the International Association for the Development of Apnea (AIDA), demands competitors dive as deep as possible on a single breath without external aid. Constant weight with bi-fins requires divers to descend and ascend using fins, all while maintaining strict control over speed and oxygen consumption.
Molchanov’s journey in freediving is deeply rooted in family legacy. Son of the legendary Natalia Molchanova, a multiple world champion and pioneering freediving instructor, Alexei has spent decades pushing the limits of human breath-hold capacity and underwater endurance. His mother’s groundbreaking techniques continue to influence his training and approach.
Beyond raw talent, safety protocols during such dives are rigorous. A highly skilled support team closely monitors each plunge, ready to intervene if a diver shows signs of distress. Molchanov’s record attempt was met with cheers from fellow athletes and judges alike, marking a milestone in a sport that consistently pushes physiological boundaries.
Experts highlight the mental resilience required. Dr. Elena Petrov, a sports psychologist specializing in extreme disciplines, explained, “Freediving demands extraordinary calm under pressure. The diver must suppress natural survival instincts to consume oxygen and remain perfectly controlled during extended apnea.”
The record has already inspired a new wave of interest in freediving. “Molchanov’s achievement proves how far humans can push themselves with discipline and dedication,” said AIDA President Sara Callis. The world is watching as freediving grows in popularity, blending athleticism, adventure, and science.
In summary, Alexei Molchanov’s record-breaking 126-meter dive stands as a monumental feat in breath-hold diving history. His performance raises the bar for elite freedivers worldwide and underscores the combination of physical and mental mastery demanded by the sport. As freediving continues to evolve, Molchanov’s pioneering spirit and world records inspire future generations to explore the depths of human potential.
