While in Beijing, just one day before the opening ceremony, Mandel was informed of the death of his father, who was killed in an accident at his home. After consulting with his family, Mandel decided to stay in China and participate in the competitions. In the 200 meter butterfly, which was held only four days later, Mandel broke the Israeli record, improving it to 1:59:27 minutes, finishing 28th. Three days later, Mandel set another Israeli record in the 100 meter butterfly 52.99 seconds becoming the only Israeli to swim the event in under 53 seconds. Mandel finished in 36th place, less than half a second slower than the time needed to advance to the semi-finals.