Born on 27 January 2001 in Thiene, near Vicenza, Thomas grew up training in Verona. He rose quickly through the junior ranks, winning medals at the European and World Junior Championships and the Youth Olympic Games before breaking through at senior level.
In Budapest 2022 he set the 100m backstroke world record of 51.60 and won the world title. He went on to take Olympic gold in Paris 2024, and in Singapore 2025 added an Italian record in the 100m butterfly.
Known for his rare versatility, Thomas races at the highest level across backstroke, butterfly, freestyle and individual medley — a range almost unheard of at world level. His explosive start and underwater work make him one of the most complete swimmers of his generation.
He represents the Fiamme Oro and the Italian national team, and continues to chase new records and titles on the road to the next Olympic cycle.
Beyond the pool, Thomas is one of Italian sport's most recognisable faces in fashion — ambassador for Emporio Armani, with cover stories and editorials for U · la Repubblica, L'Officiel Hommes and Sportweek.
Tap a cover to leaf through the shoot. Editorial imagery © respective rights holders — Ben Kelway Studio Ltd · Stefano Carloni · Sportweek / La Gazzetta dello Sport. These images are not for use or distribution.
Front pages of 30 July 2024 — Olympic gold, 100m backstroke. © Corriere della Sera · La Gazzetta dello Sport · la Repubblica. These images are not for use or distribution.
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