World record-holder McIntosh delivered a dominant performance in the 400m medley in Paris, clocking the fourth-fastest time ever. She finished in 4:27.71, outpacing American swimmers Katie Grimes (4:33.40) and Emma Weyant (4:34.93).

This victory marks the Toronto swimmer's second medal in Paris, having won silver in the 400m freestyle, just behind Australian star Ariarne Titmus and ahead of Katie Ledecky.

"I'm just trying to soak up the moment as much as possible because obviously these moments only come around every four years. So just trying to make Team Canada proud," McIntosh said. Her rise began at the pandemic-delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she made her mark as a 14-year-old by finishing fourth in the 200m freestyle behind winner Titmus.

Participating at her second Games, she feels like a veteran, crediting her Tokyo experience for helping her handle big occasions better. "Every single time I get to race on the world stage I learn more and more about handling it, mentally and physically and emotionally, and trying not to get too high or too low, depending on my race results," she explained.

Weyant praised McIntosh for her composure and dedication. "She set an impressive standard, for sure," said Weyant. "She is training with my old club team, so she is in good hands. She continues to do impressive things."

McIntosh is also the favorite in the 200m medley and a strong contender in the 200m butterfly. "I just hope I try to inspire as many young kids as possible and I hope that they know that," McIntosh said. "If I can do it, they can do it too. I was once in their shoes watching the Rio Olympics. And now that I'm here eight years later, I hope to inspire them as much as possible."