Swede cruises to victory over Zhang Yufei, Walsh Gretchen for her first gold in Fukuoka - and 20th career world medal, tying her with the American legend.
(2023 Getty Images)
Sarah Sjoestroem made it five in a row in the women’s 50-metre butterfly at the World Aquatics Championships 2023 in Fukuoka, Japan, on Saturday (29 July).
The Swedish swimmer's 20th individual world medal also moves her level with the great Michael Phelps at the top of the all-time list for podium finishes at the championships.
Sjoestroem touched in 24.77 while Zhang Yufei came home second in an Asian record of 25.05. Walsh Gretchen of USA took bronze (25.46).
“That was amazing, I am very proud of this gold which is the fifth one, it is amazing,” Sjoestroem said. “I feel like I enjoy it more than ever at the moment.
"It’s not the first time I do this; I actually did the same in Budapest when I was 17 - the final in the 50 fly and the semi-final of the 50 free. I actually enjoy doing back-to-back races, I feel better in the water not rushing too much.
The Swede’s friend, Japanese hope and cancer survivor Ikee Rikako finished seventh in her first career final at a worlds (25.78).
Sjoestroem has one more individual event in Fukuoka, the women's 50m freestyle. She set a world record of 23.61 in the semi-final on Saturday, and could surpass Phelps' record in the final on Sunday.
Asked about sharing a record with the American legend, the 29-year-old said, "I never really look at the stats too much.
"Of course I’m super proud when I hear of all the stats and I enjoy this, it’s great I keep winning medals - I can win more in the future also.
"Maybe Michael will want to come back now. He’s the hero of swimming. What he has done for swimming is amazing."