Olympic champion Adam Peaty booked his ticket for the Paris Games on Tuesday and put his rivals on notice by winning the 100 metres breaststroke at the British swimming championships in 57.94 seconds, the fastest time this year.

The world record holder had set a time of 58.53, the year's best until the evening final, in the heats at the London Aquatics Centre.

The Briton had to settle for bronze at the world championships in Qatar last February, with American Nic Fink winning in 58.57. Peaty's world record, set in Gwangju in 2019, stands at 56.88.

The selection time for Paris was set at 59.45, with second-placed James Wilby finishing in 59.47.

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"There's still a lot to come there," Peaty told BBC television after his fastest time since he won gold at the Tokyo Olympics. "This morning I was like, I'm actually so grateful for coming back here, and I didn't give up... we're coming back and I'm happy with that.

"I woke up today and it was like, I'm blessed, I'm healthy, I've got good talent and I just want to race the best in the world. That's a good job to have. You've got to put it in perspective."

The 29-year-old has been open about depression and drinking problems in the past and missed last year's world championships in Fukuoka while taking time out from competition for mental health reasons.

He returned with modest results at a trio of World Cup events in October as he started to build up towards Paris, where he will chase an unprecedented third successive 100m breaststroke title.

China's Qin Haiyang won the 50, 100 and 200m breaststroke titles in Fukuoka last July and has emerged as a favourite for Paris.

He swam the 100m in 57.69 in Fukuoka last July and also at a World Cup meeting in Berlin last October, the fastest time ever by anyone other than Peaty.

Olympic champion Adam Peaty booked his ticket for the Paris Games on Tuesday and put his rivals on notice by winning the 100 metres breaststroke at the British swimming championships in 57.

Olympic champion Adam Peaty booked his ticket for the Paris Games on Tuesday and put his rivals on notice by winning the 100 metres breaststroke at the British swimming championships in 57.94 seconds, the fastest time this year. The world record holder had set a time of 58.53, the year's best until the evening final, in the heats at the London Aquatics Centre. The Briton had to settle for bronze at the world championships in Qatar last February, with American Nic Fink winning in 58.57. Peaty's world record, set in Gwangju in 2019, stands at 56.88. The selection time for Paris was set at 59.45, with second-placed James Wilby finishing in 59.47. ALSO READ: ‘She is scared, intimidated and lonely’: Friend of Christian Horner complainant reveals "There's still a lot to come there," Peaty told BBC television after his fastest time since he won gold at the Tokyo Olympics. "This morning I was like, I'm actually so grateful for coming back here, and I didn't give up... we're coming back and I'm happy with that. "I woke up today and it was like, I'm blessed, I'm healthy, I've got good talent and I just want to race the best in the world. That's a good job to have. You've got to put it in perspective." The 29-year-old has been open about depression and drinking problems in the past and missed last year's world championships in Fukuoka while taking time out from competition for mental health reasons. He returned with modest results at a trio of World Cup events in October as he started to build up towards Paris, where he will chase an unprecedented third successive 100m breaststroke title. China's Qin Haiyang won the 50, 100 and 200m breaststroke titles in Fukuoka last July and has emerged as a favourite for Paris. He swam the 100m in 57.69 in Fukuoka last July and also at a World Cup meeting in Berlin last October, the fastest time ever by anyone other than Peaty.

Adam Peaty books Paris 2024 ticket with fastest time in 100m breaststroke at British swimming championships

China's newly minted world record holder Pan Zhanle topped qualifying for the men's 100 metres freestyle semi-finals at the Doha World Championships on Wednesday, while Olympic medallist Jeremy Desplanches was fastest in the 200m medley heats. Pan posted a time of 47.82 seconds in the morning session at the Aspire Dome pool, just over a second off the world record (46.80) he set on Sunday with his stunning lead-off swim in the relay won by China.

It was a rapid rebound for 19-year-old Pan following his surprising exit from the 200m freestyle heats on Monday, an event in which he was expected to contend for medals. Italy's Alessandro Miressi qualified second in the 100m freestyle with 47.94, while Briton Matt Richards, the 200m freestyle world champion at Fukuoka last year, was fourth quickest. With world champion Kyle Chalmers skipping the meet, along with Fukuoka minor medallists Jack Alexy and Maxime Grousset, Pan is in the box seat to pick up his first individual world title.

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Swiss swimmer Desplanches, the Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist, secured the top seed for the men's 200m individual medley semi-finals with a time of one minute 58.17 seconds. Though France's 200m and 400m medley world champion Leon Marchand is skipping Doha, Fukuoka silver medallist Duncan Scott is present and eased into the 200m semi-finals with the eighth-quickest swim.

Scott later helped Britain qualify quickest for the mixed medley relay final ahead of second-placed Australia and the third-ranked United States. Denmark's Helena Bach topped the timesheets in a modest field for the women's 200m butterfly with a time of 2:09.21. Tokyo Olympic silver medallist Siobhan Haughey will bid for a maiden world title in the women's 200m freestyle final in the evening session later on Wednesday, while Japan's Tomoru Honda, also a Tokyo runnerup, will swim for the men's 200m butterfly crown.

China's newly minted world record holder Pan Zhanle topped qualifying for the men's 100 metres freestyle semi-finals at the Doha World Championships on Wednesday, while Olympic medallist Jeremy Desplanches was fastest in the 200m medley heats.

China's newly minted world record holder Pan Zhanle topped qualifying for the men's 100 metres freestyle semi-finals at the Doha World Championships on Wednesday, while Olympic medallist Jeremy Desplanches was fastest in the 200m medley heats. Pan posted a time of 47.82 seconds in the morning session at the Aspire Dome pool, just over a second off the world record (46.80) he set on Sunday with his stunning lead-off swim in the relay won by China. It was a rapid rebound for 19-year-old Pan following his surprising exit from the 200m freestyle heats on Monday, an event in which he was expected to contend for medals. Italy's Alessandro Miressi qualified second in the 100m freestyle with 47.94, while Briton Matt Richards, the 200m freestyle world champion at Fukuoka last year, was fourth quickest. With world champion Kyle Chalmers skipping the meet, along with Fukuoka minor medallists Jack Alexy and Maxime Grousset, Pan is in the box seat to pick up his first individual world title. Also read: Athletics: Kenya's Sarah Chepchirchir handed 8-year ban for second doping violation Swiss swimmer Desplanches, the Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist, secured the top seed for the men's 200m individual medley semi-finals with a time of one minute 58.17 seconds. Though France's 200m and 400m medley world champion Leon Marchand is skipping Doha, Fukuoka silver medallist Duncan Scott is present and eased into the 200m semi-finals with the eighth-quickest swim. Scott later helped Britain qualify quickest for the mixed medley relay final ahead of second-placed Australia and the third-ranked United States. Denmark's Helena Bach topped the timesheets in a modest field for the women's 200m butterfly with a time of 2:09.21. Tokyo Olympic silver medallist Siobhan Haughey will bid for a maiden world title in the women's 200m freestyle final in the evening session later on Wednesday, while Japan's Tomoru Honda, also a Tokyo runnerup, will swim for the men's 200m butterfly crown.

Doha World C'ships: China's world record holder Pan Zhanle tops qualifying for men's 100m freestyle semifinals

Adam Peaty's hopes for a confidence-boosting win in the 100m breaststroke were dashed on Monday as the Olympic champion was forced to settle for bronze behind American winner Nic Fink at the World Championships in Doha.

On the comeback trail after taking a mental health break last year, world record holder Peaty qualified fastest for the final at the Aspire Dome with a time of 58.60 seconds but was half a second slower with the title on the line.

Veteran Fink, meanwhile, bravely fended off Peaty and Italian runner-up Nicolo Martinenghi to win in 58.57.

"I think I pushed it a little too far in the first 50 (metres) but at the end it's good to be a part of (this)," said Peaty, who is aiming for a third successive gold in the event at the Paris Games. "Definitely not an easy race to do ... Of course, we've got a long way to go."

Diogo Ribeiro won the non-Olympic men's 50m butterfly title with a time of 22.97.

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Germany's Angelina Kohler won the women's 100m butterfly title in a relatively weak field missing Canadian world champion Maggie MacNeil and the Fukuoka minor medallists, Zhang Yufei and Emma McKeon.

The 23-year-old Kohler burst into tears in the pool after winning in 56.28 seconds, 0.33 seconds ahead of American silver medallist Claire Curzan.

A day after electrifying the championships with the 100m freestyle world record in the men's 4x100m relay, China's Pan Zhanle failed to reach the semi-finals of the 200m, an event he was expected to contend for medals.

The 19-year-old never got out of second gear, posting a time of 1:51.03, more than six seconds off his personal best.

Pan's surprisingly anaemic performance may be with a view to the 100m freestyle for which he will be favourite. The heats start on Wednesday.

The women's 100m breaststroke world champion Ruta Meilutyte also disappointed, crashing out of the preliminaries.

Lithuanian Meilutyte, who took gold in the event at the 2012 London Olympics as a 15-year-old, was 17th quickest in the heats and more than three seconds off her championship swim in Fukuoka last July.

Meilutyte's setback followed Olympic champion Ahmed Fahnaoui's failure to make the men's 400m freestyle final on Sunday's opening day in a major shock.

World record holder Meilutyte will defend her 50m breaststroke title later in the meet.

China's Tang Qiantang topped qualifying for the 100m breaststroke final with a swim of 1:05.36.

With title-holder Katie Ledecky skipping Doha, Italy's former world champion Simona Quadarella is in the box seat for a second 1,500m gold.

The 2019 winner qualified fastest for the final with a time of 16:02.96. Fukuoka bronze medallist Li Bingjie was third quickest behind Germany's second-ranked Isabel Gose.

American Kate Douglass is set to defend her 200m individual medley title in the final later on Monday.

Adam Peaty's hopes for a confidence-boosting win in the 100m breaststroke were dashed on Monday as the Olympic champion was forced to settle for bronze behind American winner Nic Fink at the World Championships in Doha.

Adam Peaty's hopes for a confidence-boosting win in the 100m breaststroke were dashed on Monday as the Olympic champion was forced to settle for bronze behind American winner Nic Fink at the World Championships in Doha. On the comeback trail after taking a mental health break last year, world record holder Peaty qualified fastest for the final at the Aspire Dome with a time of 58.60 seconds but was half a second slower with the title on the line. Veteran Fink, meanwhile, bravely fended off Peaty and Italian runner-up Nicolo Martinenghi to win in 58.57. "I think I pushed it a little too far in the first 50 (metres) but at the end it's good to be a part of (this)," said Peaty, who is aiming for a third successive gold in the event at the Paris Games. "Definitely not an easy race to do ... Of course, we've got a long way to go." Diogo Ribeiro won the non-Olympic men's 50m butterfly title with a time of 22.97. ALSO READ: Lightning kills footballer in Indonesia during game, shocking video shows moment it happened Germany's Angelina Kohler won the women's 100m butterfly title in a relatively weak field missing Canadian world champion Maggie MacNeil and the Fukuoka minor medallists, Zhang Yufei and Emma McKeon. The 23-year-old Kohler burst into tears in the pool after winning in 56.28 seconds, 0.33 seconds ahead of American silver medallist Claire Curzan. A day after electrifying the championships with the 100m freestyle world record in the men's 4x100m relay, China's Pan Zhanle failed to reach the semi-finals of the 200m, an event he was expected to contend for medals. The 19-year-old never got out of second gear, posting a time of 1:51.03, more than six seconds off his personal best. Pan's surprisingly anaemic performance may be with a view to the 100m freestyle for which he will be favourite. The heats start on Wednesday. The women's 100m breaststroke world champion Ruta Meilutyte also disappointed, crashing out of the preliminaries. Lithuanian Meilutyte, who took gold in the event at the 2012 London Olympics as a 15-year-old, was 17th quickest in the heats and more than three seconds off her championship swim in Fukuoka last July. Meilutyte's setback followed Olympic champion Ahmed Fahnaoui's failure to make the men's 400m freestyle final on Sunday's opening day in a major shock. World record holder Meilutyte will defend her 50m breaststroke title later in the meet. China's Tang Qiantang topped qualifying for the 100m breaststroke final with a swim of 1:05.36. With title-holder Katie Ledecky skipping Doha, Italy's former world champion Simona Quadarella is in the box seat for a second 1,500m gold. The 2019 winner qualified fastest for the final with a time of 16:02.96. Fukuoka bronze medallist Li Bingjie was third quickest behind Germany's second-ranked Isabel Gose. American Kate Douglass is set to defend her 200m individual medley title in the final later on Monday.

Swimming: Olympic champion Adam Peaty settles for bronze in 100m breaststroke in World Championships

Over a thousand enthusiasts take part in a 'snow-made' swimming pool prepared by thawing out ice, an attraction in China's Harbin.

Swimming craze in minus-degree temperature in China's Harbin

China: Swimming craze in minus-degree temperature in Harbin

Ugandan Paralympian, Husnah Kukundakwe, at the tender age of 16, has become a beacon of hope, shattering stereotypes, and inspiring many, especially those with disabilities. Born without her right forearm and impairment to her left hand, Kukundakwe’s journey in the aquatic world began when she was barely three. Today, she stands as the youngest Paralympian at the Tokyo Games, a title she achieved at 14.

Ugandan teen paralympian busts stereotypes

Australia's top swimmers have opted out of the world championships in Doha, with the squad announced Friday sans Ariarne Titmus, Mollie O'Callaghan and Kyle Chalmers. Kaylee McKeown and Emma McKeon will also give the February event a miss to focus on the Paris Olympics later in the year.

The 18-strong roster is headlined by reigning 50-metre freestyle world champion Cameron McEvoy&nbsp;and sprinter Shayna Jack, who has been part of four world record-breaking relay teams. The squad is half the size of the one that collected 25 medals at the worlds in Fukuoka this year, including 13 golds.

Elijah Winnington, the 2022 world champion, will attempt to top the podium again in the 400m freestyle while Jenna Forrester,&nbsp;Abbey Harkin and Brianna Throssell add experience. Three rookies were selected including backstroke specialists Iona Anderson and Jaclyn Barclay, who shone at the world junior swimming championships in Israel this year.

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Australia have a busy lead-up to the Olympics. The national championships on the Gold Coast are in April and Olympic swimming trials at Brisbane on June 10-15.

Australia squad: Iona Anderson, Jaclyn Barclay, Jack Cartwright, Abbey Connor, Isaac Cooper, Jenna Forrester, Madeleine Gough, Abbey Harkin, Shayna Jack, Moesha Johnson, Cameron McEvoy, Kiah Melverton, Alexandria Perkins, Kai Taylor, Brianna Throssell, Samuel Williamson, Elijah Winnington, Bradley Woodward

Australia's top swimmers have opted out of the world championships in Doha, with the squad announced Friday sans Ariarne Titmus, Mollie O'Callaghan and Kyle Chalmers.

Australia's top swimmers have opted out of the world championships in Doha, with the squad announced Friday sans Ariarne Titmus, Mollie O'Callaghan and Kyle Chalmers. Kaylee McKeown and Emma McKeon will also give the February event a miss to focus on the Paris Olympics later in the year. The 18-strong roster is headlined by reigning 50-metre freestyle world champion Cameron McEvoy and sprinter Shayna Jack, who has been part of four world record-breaking relay teams. The squad is half the size of the one that collected 25 medals at the worlds in Fukuoka this year, including 13 golds. Elijah Winnington, the 2022 world champion, will attempt to top the podium again in the 400m freestyle while Jenna Forrester, Abbey Harkin and Brianna Throssell add experience. Three rookies were selected including backstroke specialists Iona Anderson and Jaclyn Barclay, who shone at the world junior swimming championships in Israel this year. Also read: Tennis: ITF names Novak Djokovic, Aryna Sabalenka as its 2023 'world champions' Australia have a busy lead-up to the Olympics. The national championships on the Gold Coast are in April and Olympic swimming trials at Brisbane on June 10-15. Australia squad: Iona Anderson, Jaclyn Barclay, Jack Cartwright, Abbey Connor, Isaac Cooper, Jenna Forrester, Madeleine Gough, Abbey Harkin, Shayna Jack, Moesha Johnson, Cameron McEvoy, Kiah Melverton, Alexandria Perkins, Kai Taylor, Brianna Throssell, Samuel Williamson, Elijah Winnington, Bradley Woodward

Top Australian swimmers opt out of Doha world championships

A little more than a year after banning transgender women from competing in elite female swimming events, the World Aquatics, earlier this week, cancelled its first 'open races' for transgenders after no one registered for the event. The World Cup meeting was scheduled to take place in Berlin but the organisers were forced to scrap the event after receiving no entries.&nbsp;

"Following the close of registration for the open category competitions, World Aquatics can confirm that no entries have been received for the Open Category events," World Aquatics said in a statement.

The open category was set to feature 50-metre and 100-metre races across all strokes as part of a "pioneering pilot project'. It was last year that the&nbsp;governing body of the sport decided to introduce a new category for athletes whose gender identity is different from their birth sex, after banning transgender participation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/incusiveness-or-unfair-advantage-debate-over-trans-athletes-in-sports-intensifies-492057">Also read |&nbsp;Inclusiveness or unfair advantage? Debate over trans athletes in sports intensifies</a>

<h2>World Aquatics&nbsp;to continue its efforts</h2>

Despite receiving no entries, the global body is aiming to persist with the endeavour and will include the category at masters events in future.&nbsp;

'The World Aquatics open category working group will continue its work and engagement with the aquatics community on open category events. Even if there is no current demand at the elite level, the working group is planning to look at the possibility of including open category races at masters events in the future.'

British Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies - a vocal critic of transgender women competing in women's sport - took to social media and trashed the transgender females for not turning up to face their competition.&nbsp;

"If trans women aren't going to get the physical benefit of racing females instead of others males, they're not interested!" said Davies.&nbsp;

In June 2022, World Aquatics' (formerly known as FINA), voted to allow only those who had completed their transition by the age of 12 to take part in women's competitions. The decision was prompted after reviewing the success of American Lia Thomas, who despite being a moderate college swimmer as a male competitor, managed to win an NCAA national college title in the women's category after transitioning.&nbsp;

A section of the sporting world believes that it is unfair to biological females when transgender females compete against them. Despite the transition, the transgenders possess visible physical advantages over their female counterparts which leads to an uneven playing field. The 'Open' event was aimed at providing a solution but it may have thrown more questions than before, experts say.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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A little more than a year after banning transgender women from competing in elite female swimming events, the World Aquatics, earlier this week, cancelled its first 'open races' for transgenders after no one registered for the event.

A little more than a year after banning transgender women from competing in elite female swimming events, the World Aquatics, earlier this week, cancelled its first 'open races' for transgenders after no one registered for the event. The World Cup meeting was scheduled to take place in Berlin but the organisers were forced to scrap the event after receiving no entries. "Following the close of registration for the open category competitions, World Aquatics can confirm that no entries have been received for the Open Category events," World Aquatics said in a statement. The open category was set to feature 50-metre and 100-metre races across all strokes as part of a "pioneering pilot project'. It was last year that the governing body of the sport decided to introduce a new category for athletes whose gender identity is different from their birth sex, after banning transgender participation. Also read | Inclusiveness or unfair advantage? Debate over trans athletes in sports intensifies World Aquatics to continue its efforts Despite receiving no entries, the global body is aiming to persist with the endeavour and will include the category at masters events in future. 'The World Aquatics open category working group will continue its work and engagement with the aquatics community on open category events. Even if there is no current demand at the elite level, the working group is planning to look at the possibility of including open category races at masters events in the future.' British Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies - a vocal critic of transgender women competing in women's sport - took to social media and trashed the transgender females for not turning up to face their competition. "If trans women aren't going to get the physical benefit of racing females instead of others males, they're not interested!" said Davies. In June 2022, World Aquatics' (formerly known as FINA), voted to allow only those who had completed their transition by the age of 12 to take part in women's competitions. The decision was prompted after reviewing the success of American Lia Thomas, who despite being a moderate college swimmer as a male competitor, managed to win an NCAA national college title in the women's category after transitioning. A section of the sporting world believes that it is unfair to biological females when transgender females compete against them. Despite the transition, the transgenders possess visible physical advantages over their female counterparts which leads to an uneven playing field. The 'Open' event was aimed at providing a solution but it may have thrown more questions than before, experts say. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Swimming body's World Cup 'open' races for transgenders cancelled after no one shows up

At least 57 swimmers have reported having suffered from diarrhoea and sickness after competing in sea swimming events at the ongoing World Triathlon Championship in Sunderland, the health officials confirmed this weekend. Around 2000 people participated in this event. As per a report in The Guardian, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) revealed it would test samples collected from those affected to determine the cause of illness.

The reports suggest, on Wednesday, July 26, three days before the start of the event, an Environment Agency sampling at Roker Beach showed shocking results - 3900 E Coli colonies per 100ml (a bacterial infection that causes stomach pain and bloody diarrhoea), which is 39 times higher than usual readings the previous month.

However, the British Triathlon – the apex body for triathlons in Great Britain revealed those sample readings were not published until after the weekend’s events and were outside of the competition area. They added the testing results passed the required standards for the event.

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Meanwhile, the event took place on a stretch of coastline, which had previously made headlines for a long-running battle over sewage discharges between campaigners and the government concerning regulatory failures.&nbsp;

The Northumbrian Water has insisted not to record any sewage discharge, which might have affected water quality at the beach since October 2021. 
 
An Australiana athlete, Jacob Birtwhistle, 28, on his Instagram handle, complained about feeling unwell following the swimming event, suggesting this event should have been cancelled in the first place.

He wrote, “Have been feeling pretty rubbish since the race, but I guess that’s what happens when you swim in shit. The swim should have been cancelled.”

Another athlete replied to the post, saying, “At least I know what got me and a bunch of other athletes who raced sick and ill.” Adding, their fellow athlete also wrote, “That now explains why I spent Monday night with my head in the toilet after racing Sunday morning!”

<h2>Probe initiated</h2>

Meanwhile, the British Triathlon said they are working closely with Sunderland city council and the UKHSA to determine the cause of this spreading sickness.&nbsp;

The UKHSA, in its response said, “UKHSA is working with British Triathlon to encourage anyone who participated and has or had symptoms after the event to contact the organisers, who will then pass details onto the UKHSA North East Protection team. The team will undertake an investigation of cases.”&nbsp;

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At least 57 swimmers have reported having suffered from diarrhoea and sickness after competing in sea swimming events at the ongoing World Triathlon Championship in Sunderland, the health officials confirmed this weekend.

At least 57 swimmers have reported having suffered from diarrhoea and sickness after competing in sea swimming events at the ongoing World Triathlon Championship in Sunderland, the health officials confirmed this weekend. Around 2000 people participated in this event. As per a report in The Guardian, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) revealed it would test samples collected from those affected to determine the cause of illness. The reports suggest, on Wednesday, July 26, three days before the start of the event, an Environment Agency sampling at Roker Beach showed shocking results - 3900 E Coli colonies per 100ml (a bacterial infection that causes stomach pain and bloody diarrhoea), which is 39 times higher than usual readings the previous month. However, the British Triathlon – the apex body for triathlons in Great Britain revealed those sample readings were not published until after the weekend’s events and were outside of the competition area. They added the testing results passed the required standards for the event. ALSO READ: Four-time Olympic champion Simone Biles makes triumphant return to gymnastics at US Classic Meanwhile, the event took place on a stretch of coastline, which had previously made headlines for a long-running battle over sewage discharges between campaigners and the government concerning regulatory failures. The Northumbrian Water has insisted not to record any sewage discharge, which might have affected water quality at the beach since October 2021. An Australiana athlete, Jacob Birtwhistle, 28, on his Instagram handle, complained about feeling unwell following the swimming event, suggesting this event should have been cancelled in the first place. He wrote, “Have been feeling pretty rubbish since the race, but I guess that’s what happens when you swim in shit. The swim should have been cancelled.” Another athlete replied to the post, saying, “At least I know what got me and a bunch of other athletes who raced sick and ill.” Adding, their fellow athlete also wrote, “That now explains why I spent Monday night with my head in the toilet after racing Sunday morning!” Probe initiated Meanwhile, the British Triathlon said they are working closely with Sunderland city council and the UKHSA to determine the cause of this spreading sickness. The UKHSA, in its response said, “UKHSA is working with British Triathlon to encourage anyone who participated and has or had symptoms after the event to contact the organisers, who will then pass details onto the UKHSA North East Protection team. The team will undertake an investigation of cases.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK: 57 swimmers down with diarrhoea at World Triathlon Championship in Sunderland, probe initiated

China's Qin Haiyang shattered the world record in the men's 200 metres breaststroke event at the World Aquatics Championships on Friday, charging to the gold medal in a time of two minutes, 05.48 seconds to complete a sweep over three distances.

Qin made a blistering start in the final and did not step off the gas pedal to break the previous mark of 2:05.95 set by reigning Olympic champion Zac Stubblety-Cook during the 2022 Australian championships in Adelaide.

The Zhuzhou-born 24-year-old was 0.92 seconds faster than silver medallist Stubblety-Cook on the night, with Matt Fallon of the United States took&nbsp;the bronze finishing more than two seconds behind the champion.

Victory was Qin's third at the worlds this year, following his triumphs in the 50m breaststroke and 100m breaststroke, and makes him one to watch ahead of next year's Paris Olympics.

Asked about his feat of shaving nearly half a second off Stubblety-Cook's mark, Qin said: "It's not my dream. I dream of the 100m world record."

Earlier, Australia's Mollie O'Callaghan stormed to victory in the women's 100m freestyle, capturing gold in 52.16 seconds to defend her title and secure a sprint double.

Australia had dominated the event with three titles in the previous five championships thanks to victories by O'Callaghan at Budapest in 2022, Bronte Campbell at Kazan in 2015 and Cate Campbell at Barcelona in 2013.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-moeen-alis-injury-a-big-turning-point-in-oval-test-feels-former-england-captain-nasser-hussain-620233">Ashes 2023: Moeen Ali's injury a big turning point in Oval Test, feels former England captain Nasser Hussain</a>

The 19-year-old O'Callaghan ensured that fine run continued by finishing strongly after a sluggish start to edge out Siobhan Haughey of Hong Kong, who grabbed silver in 52.49 seconds.

O'Callaghan became the first woman to win the 100m and 200m freestyle titles at the same worlds.

"I came into this week wanting to have fun, enjoy it and learn. To have achieved so much is an incredible feeling," said an emotional O'Callaghan, who overcame a knee problem to set a world record en route to the 200m title on Wednesday.

"Having fun is the most important part. Going into previous meets, I was just so nervous all the time and worrying and this is the first time that I've actually felt quite calm and just enjoying every little bit."

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China's Qin Haiyang shattered the world record in the men's 200 metres breaststroke event at the World Aquatics Championships on Friday, charging to the gold medal in a time of two minutes, 05.

China's Qin Haiyang shattered the world record in the men's 200 metres breaststroke event at the World Aquatics Championships on Friday, charging to the gold medal in a time of two minutes, 05.48 seconds to complete a sweep over three distances. Qin made a blistering start in the final and did not step off the gas pedal to break the previous mark of 2:05.95 set by reigning Olympic champion Zac Stubblety-Cook during the 2022 Australian championships in Adelaide. The Zhuzhou-born 24-year-old was 0.92 seconds faster than silver medallist Stubblety-Cook on the night, with Matt Fallon of the United States took the bronze finishing more than two seconds behind the champion. Victory was Qin's third at the worlds this year, following his triumphs in the 50m breaststroke and 100m breaststroke, and makes him one to watch ahead of next year's Paris Olympics. Asked about his feat of shaving nearly half a second off Stubblety-Cook's mark, Qin said: "It's not my dream. I dream of the 100m world record." Earlier, Australia's Mollie O'Callaghan stormed to victory in the women's 100m freestyle, capturing gold in 52.16 seconds to defend her title and secure a sprint double. Australia had dominated the event with three titles in the previous five championships thanks to victories by O'Callaghan at Budapest in 2022, Bronte Campbell at Kazan in 2015 and Cate Campbell at Barcelona in 2013. ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: Moeen Ali's injury a big turning point in Oval Test, feels former England captain Nasser Hussain The 19-year-old O'Callaghan ensured that fine run continued by finishing strongly after a sluggish start to edge out Siobhan Haughey of Hong Kong, who grabbed silver in 52.49 seconds. O'Callaghan became the first woman to win the 100m and 200m freestyle titles at the same worlds. "I came into this week wanting to have fun, enjoy it and learn. To have achieved so much is an incredible feeling," said an emotional O'Callaghan, who overcame a knee problem to set a world record en route to the 200m title on Wednesday. "Having fun is the most important part. Going into previous meets, I was just so nervous all the time and worrying and this is the first time that I've actually felt quite calm and just enjoying every little bit." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Swimming: China's Qin Haiyang smashes 200m breaststroke world record, claims hat-trick at worlds

Australia's Mollie O'Callaghan stormed to victory in the women's 100 metres freestyle race at the World Aquatics Championships on Friday, capturing gold in a time of 52.16 seconds to defend her title and complete a sprint sweep.

Australia had dominated the event with three titles in the previous five editions of the championships thanks to victories by O'Callaghan at Budapest in 2022, Bronte Campbell at Kazan in 2015 and Cate Campbell at Barcelona in 2013. The 19-year-old O'Callaghan ensured that fine run continued by finishing strongly to edge out Siobhan Haughey of Hong Kong who grabbed silver in 52.49 seconds.

O'Callaghan also became the first woman to win the 100m and 200m titles at the same worlds. Marrit Steenbergen of the Netherlands set the pace in the semi-finals but had to be content with bronze after coming home 0.55 seconds behind the winner. South Africa's Tatjana Schoenmaker had set the benchmark in the women's 200m breaststroke with the quickest semi-final time and the 26-year-old will look to claim her first gold of this year's meet later after a silver over 100m earlier this week.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-england-beat-denmark-to-stand-on-verge-of-fifa-world-cup-last-16-620272">Football: England beat Denmark to stand on verge of FIFA World Cup last 16</a>

Looking to deny her will be Tes Schouten of the Netherlands and American Kate Douglass, with the top three separated by only 0.68 seconds ahead of the final. American Ryan Murphy faces a tough task in his quest to retain his men's 200m backstroke crown, with the trio of Roman Mityukov, Benedek Bendeguz Kovacs and Hubert Kos all going faster than the 28-year-old in the semi-finals.

Victory for the experienced Murphy over his younger rivals will complete a superb double at Fukuoka, after he won the 100m backstroke title beating the fancied Thomas Ceccon of Italy. Australia's Zac Stubblety-Cook is the overwhelming favourite to defend his men's 200m breaststroke title after solid displays in the preliminary races and the 24-year-old will aim to lower his own world record of 2:05.95 set in Adelaide last year.

His biggest challenger will be China's Qin Haiyang, who is looking for a third gold after wrapping up breaststroke titles over 50m and 100m at the Marine Messe Hall. Qin was 0.43 seconds slower than Stubblety-Cook after the semis with American Matt Fallon a further 0.20 seconds away.

Australia will look to boost their gold medal tally further when their men's team take to the pool for the 4x200m freestyle relay with the U.S., Italy and Britain set to challenge in the day's final race. 
 
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Australia's Mollie O'Callaghan stormed to victory in the women's 100 metres freestyle race at the World Aquatics Championships on Friday, capturing gold in a time of 52.

Australia's Mollie O'Callaghan stormed to victory in the women's 100 metres freestyle race at the World Aquatics Championships on Friday, capturing gold in a time of 52.16 seconds to defend her title and complete a sprint sweep. Australia had dominated the event with three titles in the previous five editions of the championships thanks to victories by O'Callaghan at Budapest in 2022, Bronte Campbell at Kazan in 2015 and Cate Campbell at Barcelona in 2013. The 19-year-old O'Callaghan ensured that fine run continued by finishing strongly to edge out Siobhan Haughey of Hong Kong who grabbed silver in 52.49 seconds. O'Callaghan also became the first woman to win the 100m and 200m titles at the same worlds. Marrit Steenbergen of the Netherlands set the pace in the semi-finals but had to be content with bronze after coming home 0.55 seconds behind the winner. South Africa's Tatjana Schoenmaker had set the benchmark in the women's 200m breaststroke with the quickest semi-final time and the 26-year-old will look to claim her first gold of this year's meet later after a silver over 100m earlier this week. Also read: Football: England beat Denmark to stand on verge of FIFA World Cup last 16 Looking to deny her will be Tes Schouten of the Netherlands and American Kate Douglass, with the top three separated by only 0.68 seconds ahead of the final. American Ryan Murphy faces a tough task in his quest to retain his men's 200m backstroke crown, with the trio of Roman Mityukov, Benedek Bendeguz Kovacs and Hubert Kos all going faster than the 28-year-old in the semi-finals. Victory for the experienced Murphy over his younger rivals will complete a superb double at Fukuoka, after he won the 100m backstroke title beating the fancied Thomas Ceccon of Italy. Australia's Zac Stubblety-Cook is the overwhelming favourite to defend his men's 200m breaststroke title after solid displays in the preliminary races and the 24-year-old will aim to lower his own world record of 2:05.95 set in Adelaide last year. His biggest challenger will be China's Qin Haiyang, who is looking for a third gold after wrapping up breaststroke titles over 50m and 100m at the Marine Messe Hall. Qin was 0.43 seconds slower than Stubblety-Cook after the semis with American Matt Fallon a further 0.20 seconds away. Australia will look to boost their gold medal tally further when their men's team take to the pool for the 4x200m freestyle relay with the U.S., Italy and Britain set to challenge in the day's final race. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Swimming: Australia's Mollie O'Callaghan defends 100m freestyle title at world championships

China won back-to-back gold medals on the second day of swimming action at the World Aquatics Championships as Qin Haiyang roared to victory in the men's 100 metres breaststroke while Zhang Yufei took the women's 100m butterfly title on Monday. Qin set the second-fastest time in history behind Britain's world record holder Adam Peaty, finishing in 57.69 seconds with a three-way tie for the silver as Nicolo Martinenghi, Arno Kamminga and Nic Fink were all locked on 58.72 seconds.

The new champion also shaved 0.13 seconds off his previous Asian record of 57.82 seconds which was set in the semi-finals. Zhang then came up with another dominating display to emerge triumphant in her event with a time of 56.12 seconds, finishing ahead of Tokyo Olympics gold medallist Margaret Mac Neil of Canada and 2022 champion Torri Huske of the United States. "This is my first gold medal at the world championships," said double Olympic champion Zhang, who has seven bronze medals at the worlds. "This is my happy time. I just feel wonderful and amazing."

The absence of defending champion Caeleb Dressel from the men's 50m butterfly event opened the door for Thomas Ceccon who touched the wall in 22.68 seconds to win Italy's first gold of the meet to loud cheers at a packed Marine Messe Fukuoka Hall. Seven-time Olympic gold medallist Dressel, who also claimed gold in the 2019 Gwangju worlds, failed to qualify for Fukuoka after disappointing displays at the U.S. national championships.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-womens-wc-italys-16-year-old-little-messi-makes-heads-turn-in-debut-against-argentina-watch-618931">FIFA Women's WC: Italy's 16-year-old 'little Messi' makes heads turn in debut against Argentina - WATCH</a>

Diogo Matos Ribeiro of Portugal was 0.12 seconds behind Ceccon to capture the silver medal while it was a disappointing outing for Frenchman Maxime Grousset, who was 0.14 seconds off the pace and had to settle for bronze. Grousset watched compatriot Leon Marchand open France's account on Sunday by shattering American great Michael Phelps' 15-year 400m individual medley record en route to gold and had set the pace in the semi-finals with a new national mark.

Alex Walsh will look to defend her 200m individual medley title later on Monday and could face stiff competition from China's Yu Yiting, who was only 0.77 seconds behind the American's leading time in the semi-finals. Australia's triple Olympic gold medallist Kaylee McKeown was one of three competitors disqualified from the semi-finals after the 22-year-old was adjudged to have committed a violation as she switched from backstroke to breaststroke.

Britain's Katie Shanahan and Italy's Sara Franceschi also missed out on the final.

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China won back-to-back gold medals on the second day of swimming action at the World Aquatics Championships as Qin Haiyang roared to victory in the men's 100 metres breaststroke while Zhang Yufei took the women's 100m butterfly title on Monday.

China won back-to-back gold medals on the second day of swimming action at the World Aquatics Championships as Qin Haiyang roared to victory in the men's 100 metres breaststroke while Zhang Yufei took the women's 100m butterfly title on Monday. Qin set the second-fastest time in history behind Britain's world record holder Adam Peaty, finishing in 57.69 seconds with a three-way tie for the silver as Nicolo Martinenghi, Arno Kamminga and Nic Fink were all locked on 58.72 seconds. The new champion also shaved 0.13 seconds off his previous Asian record of 57.82 seconds which was set in the semi-finals. Zhang then came up with another dominating display to emerge triumphant in her event with a time of 56.12 seconds, finishing ahead of Tokyo Olympics gold medallist Margaret Mac Neil of Canada and 2022 champion Torri Huske of the United States. "This is my first gold medal at the world championships," said double Olympic champion Zhang, who has seven bronze medals at the worlds. "This is my happy time. I just feel wonderful and amazing." The absence of defending champion Caeleb Dressel from the men's 50m butterfly event opened the door for Thomas Ceccon who touched the wall in 22.68 seconds to win Italy's first gold of the meet to loud cheers at a packed Marine Messe Fukuoka Hall. Seven-time Olympic gold medallist Dressel, who also claimed gold in the 2019 Gwangju worlds, failed to qualify for Fukuoka after disappointing displays at the U.S. national championships. Also read: FIFA Women's WC: Italy's 16-year-old 'little Messi' makes heads turn in debut against Argentina - WATCH Diogo Matos Ribeiro of Portugal was 0.12 seconds behind Ceccon to capture the silver medal while it was a disappointing outing for Frenchman Maxime Grousset, who was 0.14 seconds off the pace and had to settle for bronze. Grousset watched compatriot Leon Marchand open France's account on Sunday by shattering American great Michael Phelps' 15-year 400m individual medley record en route to gold and had set the pace in the semi-finals with a new national mark. Alex Walsh will look to defend her 200m individual medley title later on Monday and could face stiff competition from China's Yu Yiting, who was only 0.77 seconds behind the American's leading time in the semi-finals. Australia's triple Olympic gold medallist Kaylee McKeown was one of three competitors disqualified from the semi-finals after the 22-year-old was adjudged to have committed a violation as she switched from backstroke to breaststroke. Britain's Katie Shanahan and Italy's Sara Franceschi also missed out on the final. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Aquatics Championships: Double delight for China as Qin Haiyang, Zhang Yufei strike gold

Seven-time Olympic swimming gold medallist Caeleb Dressel was denied again in his bid to return to the World Championships on Thursday, finishing tied for fifth in the 100m butterfly at the US championships in Indianapolis. Dressel, who set the world record while winning 100m butterfly gold in Tokyo Olympics&nbsp;in 2021, is competing this week in his first major meet since withdrawing from last year's World Championships in Budapest.

Months away from the pool have made a difference this week for the US star, who was 29th in the preliminaries of the 100m free before a third place finish in the 50m butterfly -- an encouraging performance but not enough to make the team for next month's World Championships in Fukuoka, Japan.

In fact, Dressel was ninth-fastest in the 100m fly heats on Thursday, but gained a place in the championship final when Ryan Murphy pulled out of the event. Dressel couldn't capitalize as Dare Rose won in a personal best of 50.74sec with 16-year-old Thomas Heilman second in 51.91.

Heilman, who was second in the 200m fly, became the youngest American male swimmer to qualify for two individual World Championships events as Dressel finished 92-hundredths of a second off the pace.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-transfers-manchester-united-agree-mason-mount-deal-as-english-striker-gets-closet-to-chelsea-exit-610256">Football Transfers: Manchester United agree Mason Mount deal as English striker gets closer to Chelsea exit</a>

Dressel, who won the 100m fly, 100m free and 50m free at the Tokyo Games, will have one more shot this week in the 50m freestyle.

He has largely declined to discuss his decision to step away from the pool and his comeback, with coach Anthony Nesty telling broadcaster NBC before the championships that "training-wise, he did a really nice job coming back.

"All we can do is support Caeleb where he's at," Nesty said. "And he knows where he's at."

In other events Thursday, Torri Huske lined up a defense of the 100m fly world title she won in Budapest with a victory in 56.18sec.

Gretchen Walsh was second in 56.34, holding off Kate Douglass whose time of 56.43 saw the race produce the three fastest times in the world this year.

Katie Grimes powered past Alex Walsh on the final freestyle leg to win the 400m individual medley in 4:33.80. Grimes, runner-up to Summer McIntosh at the World Championships last year, earned another shot at the Canadian world record-holder as she added a pool event in Fukuoka to the open water events she had already qualified for.

Walsh, the reigning 200 IM world champion, also booked a world championships berth with her runner-up finish in 4:35.46.

Carson Foster added a second event to his Fukuoka programme, winning the men's 400m medley in 4:08.14, two days after winning the 200m fly.

Chase Kalisz was second in 4:08.22.

Lilly King added a 50m breaststroke win to her 200m breaststroke title. Nic Fink, the 2022 world champion, won the men's 50m breaststroke.

Katherine Berkoff won the women's 50m backstroke and reigning world champion Justin Ress won the men's 50m back.

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Seven-time Olympic swimming gold medallist Caeleb Dressel was denied again in his bid to return to the World Championships on Thursday, finishing tied for fifth in the 100m butterfly at the US championships in Indianapolis.

Seven-time Olympic swimming gold medallist Caeleb Dressel was denied again in his bid to return to the World Championships on Thursday, finishing tied for fifth in the 100m butterfly at the US championships in Indianapolis. Dressel, who set the world record while winning 100m butterfly gold in Tokyo Olympics in 2021, is competing this week in his first major meet since withdrawing from last year's World Championships in Budapest. Months away from the pool have made a difference this week for the US star, who was 29th in the preliminaries of the 100m free before a third place finish in the 50m butterfly -- an encouraging performance but not enough to make the team for next month's World Championships in Fukuoka, Japan. In fact, Dressel was ninth-fastest in the 100m fly heats on Thursday, but gained a place in the championship final when Ryan Murphy pulled out of the event. Dressel couldn't capitalize as Dare Rose won in a personal best of 50.74sec with 16-year-old Thomas Heilman second in 51.91. Heilman, who was second in the 200m fly, became the youngest American male swimmer to qualify for two individual World Championships events as Dressel finished 92-hundredths of a second off the pace. ALSO READ: Football Transfers: Manchester United agree Mason Mount deal as English striker gets closer to Chelsea exit Dressel, who won the 100m fly, 100m free and 50m free at the Tokyo Games, will have one more shot this week in the 50m freestyle. He has largely declined to discuss his decision to step away from the pool and his comeback, with coach Anthony Nesty telling broadcaster NBC before the championships that "training-wise, he did a really nice job coming back. "All we can do is support Caeleb where he's at," Nesty said. "And he knows where he's at." In other events Thursday, Torri Huske lined up a defense of the 100m fly world title she won in Budapest with a victory in 56.18sec. Gretchen Walsh was second in 56.34, holding off Kate Douglass whose time of 56.43 saw the race produce the three fastest times in the world this year. Katie Grimes powered past Alex Walsh on the final freestyle leg to win the 400m individual medley in 4:33.80. Grimes, runner-up to Summer McIntosh at the World Championships last year, earned another shot at the Canadian world record-holder as she added a pool event in Fukuoka to the open water events she had already qualified for. Walsh, the reigning 200 IM world champion, also booked a world championships berth with her runner-up finish in 4:35.46. Carson Foster added a second event to his Fukuoka programme, winning the men's 400m medley in 4:08.14, two days after winning the 200m fly. Chase Kalisz was second in 4:08.22. Lilly King added a 50m breaststroke win to her 200m breaststroke title. Nic Fink, the 2022 world champion, won the men's 50m breaststroke. Katherine Berkoff won the women's 50m backstroke and reigning world champion Justin Ress won the men's 50m back. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Swimming: Caeleb Dressel suffers blow at US national championships, comes 5th in 100m butterfly

This is the story of a young Lebanese swimmer. The 29-year-old, for whom disability is no hurdle. Elissa Harik is representing Lebanon on the world stage, as she readies for the Berlin Special Olympics. Ghadi Francis gets you her story.

Inspirational story of a Lebanese swimmer | The West Asia Post

Canadian teenager Summer McIntosh clocked 3min 56.08sec to break the women's 400m freestyle world record Tuesday at the Canadian Swimming Trials in Toronto.

The 16-year-old broke the previous record of 3:56.40 set last May by Australia's Ariarne Titmus at the Australian Championships in Adelaide -- where the Aussie broke American Katie Ledecky's six-year-old world mark of 3:56.46 set at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

Coming into the meet -- Canada's selection meeting for the World Championships in Fukuoka, Japan, in July -- McIntosh was the fourth-fastest performer ever in the event behind Titmus, Ledecky and Italian Federica Pellegrini.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2024-qualifier-round-up-scotland-get-famous-win-against-spain-croatia-down-turkey-576817">Euro 2024 Qualifier round-up: Scotland get famous win against Spain, Croatia down Turkey</a>

She had clocked 3:59.32 to finish second to Titmus at the Commonwealth Games last year in Birmingham in Britain.

McIntosh also was the silver medalist behind Ledecky at the 2022 World Championships, where she broke the four-minute barrier for the first time in the event.

She had also won gold in the 200m butterfly and 400m medley at the World Championships last year.

Her record is the first long-course world record by a Canadian since Kylie Masse in the 100m backstroke at the 2017 World Championships in Budapest.

"Honestly, going into tonight, I didn't think the world record was a possibility but you never know," said McIntosh, who broke onto the international scene at Tokyo 2020 when -- as a 14-year-old -- she finished fourth in the 400m free in her Olympic debut.

McIntosh, who recently relocated to Florida to train, said she always feels extra motivated when competing in Canada, breaking into tears as she spoke about her family.

"Over the past few years I've put my life into this," she said. "To be the best I can be. To achieve something like this, it was very unexpected. It was never in my dreams to do this tonight or even a few years ago. This just blows my mind."

Ella Jansen, 17, also punched her ticket to the World Championships in the 400m free, finishing second in 4:08.81.

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Canadian teenager Summer McIntosh clocked 3min 56.08sec to break the women's 400m freestyle world record Tuesday at the Canadian Swimming Trials in Toronto. The 16-year-old broke the previous record of 3:56.

Canadian teenager Summer McIntosh clocked 3min 56.08sec to break the women's 400m freestyle world record Tuesday at the Canadian Swimming Trials in Toronto. The 16-year-old broke the previous record of 3:56.40 set last May by Australia's Ariarne Titmus at the Australian Championships in Adelaide -- where the Aussie broke American Katie Ledecky's six-year-old world mark of 3:56.46 set at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. Coming into the meet -- Canada's selection meeting for the World Championships in Fukuoka, Japan, in July -- McIntosh was the fourth-fastest performer ever in the event behind Titmus, Ledecky and Italian Federica Pellegrini. Also Read: Euro 2024 Qualifier round-up: Scotland get famous win against Spain, Croatia down Turkey She had clocked 3:59.32 to finish second to Titmus at the Commonwealth Games last year in Birmingham in Britain. McIntosh also was the silver medalist behind Ledecky at the 2022 World Championships, where she broke the four-minute barrier for the first time in the event. She had also won gold in the 200m butterfly and 400m medley at the World Championships last year. Her record is the first long-course world record by a Canadian since Kylie Masse in the 100m backstroke at the 2017 World Championships in Budapest. "Honestly, going into tonight, I didn't think the world record was a possibility but you never know," said McIntosh, who broke onto the international scene at Tokyo 2020 when -- as a 14-year-old -- she finished fourth in the 400m free in her Olympic debut. McIntosh, who recently relocated to Florida to train, said she always feels extra motivated when competing in Canada, breaking into tears as she spoke about her family. "Over the past few years I've put my life into this," she said. "To be the best I can be. To achieve something like this, it was very unexpected. It was never in my dreams to do this tonight or even a few years ago. This just blows my mind." Ella Jansen, 17, also punched her ticket to the World Championships in the 400m free, finishing second in 4:08.81. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Canadian teenager Summer McIntosh breaks women's 400m freestyle world record

Chilean Barbara Hernandez, who became the first person recorded to have swum 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) in the near-freezing Antarctic Ocean, says fear, not other people, is her rival.

Chilean Barbara Hernandez, who became the first person recorded to have swum 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) in the near-freezing Antarctic Ocean, says fear, not other people, is her rival. The 37-year-old completed the feat in 45 minutes and 30 seconds on February 5, wearing an ordinary swimsuit without additional padding, some goggles, a swimming cap and earplugs. Her only defence against a cold that would have killed many others: perseverance. The water temperature reached barely two degrees Celsius (35.6 Fahrenheit). "My biggest rival is fear... not (other) people," Hernandez told AFP after completing the glacial endeavour recognised as a first by the International Winter Swimming Association. She hopes it will also be inscribed in the Guinness World Records. "Fear of failure, of failing the people who trust in me, those are my main adversaries," said the Chilean swimmer nicknamed 'The Ice Mermaid'. Hernandez recounted her mind-over-body struggle completing the distance, about the length of 25 football fields - which started from a Chilean Navy ship near Greenwich Island in Antarctica. Read more: Explained: A new theory says Black holes are causing universe to expand Shortly after halfway, she said, "I felt something cold passing through my heart" - a known sign of hypothermia setting in, with the risk of heart attack and death. Hernandez did the only thing she knew how: she kept kicking and wading until she reached the finish: a buoy in the middle of the ocean. "It was a super difficult swim, tough," Hernandez told AFP. "After completing the first mile I felt that I would never reach the buoy... I felt... my arms getting heavier and heavier," she said. "But I did not concentrate on that." Melting Antarctic Hernandez said she had dreamt of the moment for a decade. But it is not only about pushing herself. She is also using her public profile to advocate for marine protection. "What scares me is that Antarctica keeps melting. That really scares me," she said. "When I was swimming, that was one of the things I was thinking about. My legs hurt, but I felt strong. I thought: This is not just for me, it is the cause we wanted to make visible. That gives you a boost." Last week, the National Snow and Ice Data Center in the United States reported that the Antarctic Ocean area covered by ice has shrunk to a record low. After completing her swim, Hernandez was plucked from the icy waters and admitted to the onboard clinic of the Janequeo navy ship. Read more: US swimming experts impart training and life skills to underprivileged girls in India By the time she got there, her body temperature was just 27 C, far below the average of about 37 C for a person in good health. She never lost consciousness, though she did ramble incoherently for a bit. Within two hours, she was back to her old self, Hernandez recounted. Her next challenge will be the Oceans Seven marathon which consists of swimming through seven channels or straits around the world, finishing in Japan in August. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Barbara Hernandez completes 2.5 km Antarctic swim, becomes first person to achieve the feat

Chilean swimmer Barbara Hernandez became the first swimmer to cover 2.5 kilometers in the frozen waters off Antarctica on Monday. Hernandez is an experienced open-water swimmer, having set the Guinness world record for the fastest ocean mil through the Drake Passage in southern Chile.

Barbara Hernandez marks world first with 2.5-KM Antarctica swim

Olympian Srihari Nataraj had a memorable run in the National Games. Winning as many as six gold medals in swimming for Karnataka, the 21-year-old athlete had a torrid experience after he and his team were coming back from Gujarat.

Nataraj took&nbsp;to Twitter to describe&nbsp;the whole incident, where he lashed out at the airline -- Indigo -- who charged him for extra luggage and misbehaved as well.&nbsp;"Dear @IndiGo6E I was returning from the National Games held in Gujarat, and the staff not only behaved badly, but also charged us a hefty amount for excess baggage which was the medals and goodies that we athletes had won."

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"Honestly, the amount wasn't an issue, it's the the way they treated me and my teammates. Should we leave the medals we win back at the venue?," he added.

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Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiGo6E</a> 
 
I was returning from the National Games held in Gujarat, and the staff not only behaved badly, but also charged us a hefty amount for excess baggage which was the medals and goodies that we athletes had won.
— Srihari Nataraj OLY (@srihari3529) <a href="https://twitter.com/srihari3529/status/1579322483723112448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Honestly, the amount wasn't an issue, it's the the way they treated me and my teammates. 
Should we leave the medals we win back at the venue?🤔 <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiGo6E</a>
— Srihari Nataraj OLY (@srihari3529) <a href="https://twitter.com/srihari3529/status/1579322489620295681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Talking about Nataraj's run in the National Games, he&nbsp;ended with six medals, including the men's 100m freestyle. The young athlete made heads turn by&nbsp;not just winning his second gold in the freestyle sprint but&nbsp;also breaking the national record by topping the race in 50.41 seconds.

Karnataka occupy the&nbsp;fourth spot in the medals tally with as many as 25 gold medals and a total of 84. Services continue to lead the overall standing with&nbsp;51 gold medals, out of a total of 113. The National Games, which kicked off last month, will&nbsp;conclude on October 12.
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Olympian Srihari Nataraj had a memorable run in the National Games. Winning as many as six gold medals in swimming for Karnataka, the 21-year-old athlete had a torrid experience after he and his team were coming back from Gujarat.

Olympian Srihari Nataraj had a memorable run in the National Games. Winning as many as six gold medals in swimming for Karnataka, the 21-year-old athlete had a torrid experience after he and his team were coming back from Gujarat. Nataraj took to Twitter to describe the whole incident, where he lashed out at the airline -- Indigo -- who charged him for extra luggage and misbehaved as well. "Dear @IndiGo6E I was returning from the National Games held in Gujarat, and the staff not only behaved badly, but also charged us a hefty amount for excess baggage which was the medals and goodies that we athletes had won." "Honestly, the amount wasn't an issue, it's the the way they treated me and my teammates. Should we leave the medals we win back at the venue?," he added. Dear @IndiGo6E I was returning from the National Games held in Gujarat, and the staff not only behaved badly, but also charged us a hefty amount for excess baggage which was the medals and goodies that we athletes had won. — Srihari Nataraj OLY (@srihari3529) October 10, 2022 × Honestly, the amount wasn't an issue, it's the the way they treated me and my teammates. Should we leave the medals we win back at the venue?🤔 @IndiGo6E — Srihari Nataraj OLY (@srihari3529) October 10, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'I want to spread awareness' - Iga Swiatek to donate Ostrava prize money for mental health, wins hearts Talking about Nataraj's run in the National Games, he ended with six medals, including the men's 100m freestyle. The young athlete made heads turn by not just winning his second gold in the freestyle sprint but also breaking the national record by topping the race in 50.41 seconds. Karnataka occupy the fourth spot in the medals tally with as many as 25 gold medals and a total of 84. Services continue to lead the overall standing with 51 gold medals, out of a total of 113. The National Games, which kicked off last month, will conclude on October 12.

'Should we leave the medals we win?': Nataraj blasts airline for misbehaviour after National Games' heroics

As part of a US State Department Sports Envoy programme, two American expert swimming coaches are travelling to fishing hamlets across India to empower the girls there. The initiative is aimed at imparting swimming and life skills and ocean conservation to a select group of girls, who belong to the underprivileged community.&nbsp;

The experts—Julia Harbaugh and Nora Deleske—have been to Kovalam in Tamil Nadu and Kozhikode in Kerala as part of their programme.

According to them, sports are being used as a tool to boost the girls' confidence, allow them to enjoy the water safely, increase their understanding of the fragility of the ocean environment and impart life skills.&nbsp;

San Francisco-based Julia is one of the few trainers in the world with expertise in imparting swimming training to visually challenged persons.

A native of Arizona, Nora Deleske was the captain of the Arizona State University (ASU) swimming and diving teams. She had also competed in the 2016 and 2021 US Olympic trials.&nbsp;

The three-day hands-on workshops were conducted by an NGO, United Way of Chennai, in association with the US Consulate General, Chennai.

The experts also focussed on helping the participants overcome their fears and build soft skills like teamwork, goal-setting and the importance of perseverance.

Prior to the workshop, they engaged with the participants via online sessions to build rapport and talk openly about women's health and hygiene.&nbsp;

"We are excited about this initiative for these young girls. Even though we have been working with children over the years, empowering young women through a life skill such as open water swimming is a novel idea. We can't wait to see the impact this will create on the girl's self-confidence levels and what it will mean for their families and community", said Meenakshi Ramesh, Executive Director, United Way of Chennai.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

As part of a US State Department Sports Envoy programme, two American expert swimming coaches are travelling to fishing hamlets across India to empower the girls there.

As part of a US State Department Sports Envoy programme, two American expert swimming coaches are travelling to fishing hamlets across India to empower the girls there. The initiative is aimed at imparting swimming and life skills and ocean conservation to a select group of girls, who belong to the underprivileged community. The experts—Julia Harbaugh and Nora Deleske—have been to Kovalam in Tamil Nadu and Kozhikode in Kerala as part of their programme. According to them, sports are being used as a tool to boost the girls' confidence, allow them to enjoy the water safely, increase their understanding of the fragility of the ocean environment and impart life skills. San Francisco-based Julia is one of the few trainers in the world with expertise in imparting swimming training to visually challenged persons. A native of Arizona, Nora Deleske was the captain of the Arizona State University (ASU) swimming and diving teams. She had also competed in the 2016 and 2021 US Olympic trials. The three-day hands-on workshops were conducted by an NGO, United Way of Chennai, in association with the US Consulate General, Chennai. The experts also focussed on helping the participants overcome their fears and build soft skills like teamwork, goal-setting and the importance of perseverance. Prior to the workshop, they engaged with the participants via online sessions to build rapport and talk openly about women's health and hygiene. "We are excited about this initiative for these young girls. Even though we have been working with children over the years, empowering young women through a life skill such as open water swimming is a novel idea. We can't wait to see the impact this will create on the girl's self-confidence levels and what it will mean for their families and community", said Meenakshi Ramesh, Executive Director, United Way of Chennai.

US swimming experts impart training and life skills to underprivileged girls in India

A self-confessed "shark" in the water Michael Phelps trained non-stop in pursuit of his all-consuming dream to become the greatest swimmer of all time. But the 37-year-old disclosed that none of his 60 plus gold medals, including a record 23 in the Olympics, weighs more than his current career as a mental health advocate.

After years of hiding his depression, Phelps told AFP in an interview at the "Demain le sport" (Sports Tomorrow) forum in Paris, his post-swimming career was even busier than his punishing schedule in the pool.

"I'd rather have the opportunity to save a life than win another gold medal because this is way more important," said Phelps.

"We have lost way too many Olympic athletes to suicide. I don't want to lose any more of my Olympic family members."

Phelps' depression first emerged in 2004, the year of his first Olympics in Athens when he won eight medals including six gold.

"Competing was one of my favourite things. I was a shark and smelt blood in the water and kept going," he said.

He feared opening up would be "a sign of weakness, giving competitors an edge," adding: "I went through a period where I didn't want to be alive."

Phelps, who was involved in the making of a documentary 'The Weight of Gold', praised tennis star Naomi Osaka and gymnastics great Simone Biles for their openness.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-has-been-a-perfect-journey-i-would-do-it-all-over-again-roger-federer-breaks-down-in-his-farewell-speech-519213">It has been a perfect journey, I would do it all over again: Roger Federer breaks down in his farewell speech</a>

"I have to applaud Naomi," he told AFP. "She went on her social media platform and expressed what she was going through in her own words.&nbsp;That's not the easiest thing to do."

"If you look at Simone Biles, she had that happen to her at the largest moment in her career."&nbsp;

"It shows you how unexpected a mental health illness is. It can pop up like that," he said clicking his fingers.

"We need more and more people who are opening up to share to lower down these walls, these boundaries that people have built up."

Now the father of three boys aged six, four and three, Phelps says his life with wife Nicole is "non stop, busier than it was before, travelling all over the world, working with sponsors or doing motivational speeches."

"(Nicole) can tell you there are days when I wake up and I feel great and the next day I can wake up and be a completely different human, so it's just trying to find that balance.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is going to be an ongoing journey that may never get solved."

"Finding ways to be your authentic self. I swim, we've built a gym in our garage. I write a journal.&nbsp;&nbsp;We have a handful of tools that I can reach and use, that's just because of the work we've done to get to this point."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rafael-nadal-could-not-hold-back-tears-as-rival-roger-federer-bids-emotional-farewell-to-tennis-519203">WATCH: Rafael Nadal cannot hold back tears as rival Roger Federer bids emotional farewell to tennis</a>

Phelps retired in 2016, after making a comeback for the Rio Olympics after a two-year hiatus from the sport.

"It helped me to transition into that next chapter which is now mental health and to be able to find something that I'm passionate about and I struggle with.&nbsp;

"It's like a win-win."

With no nostalgia for the punishing sport, Phelps said there was "zero chance" of following in the footsteps of his coach Bob Bowman.

"In general you find the greats in sport aren't the best in coaching, look at Wayne Gretzky, he tried to coach an NHL team and that did not go very well," he said.

A role in USA Swimming or world governing body FINA are a possibility but, "not right now".&nbsp;

"I definitely wouldn't say no, but a lot needs to happen, there needs to be a lot of changes to be honest."

But he remains tuned into the issues of the sport and is in favour of an 'open category' for transgender swimmers.

"I think there should be three classes men, women, trans, give everyone an equal opportunity to stand up and race." 
&nbsp;

A self-confessed "shark" in the water Michael Phelps trained non-stop in pursuit of his all-consuming dream to become the greatest swimmer of all time. But the 37-year-old disclosed that none of his 60 plus gold medals, including a record 23 in the Olympics, weighs more than his current career as a mental health advocate.

A self-confessed "shark" in the water Michael Phelps trained non-stop in pursuit of his all-consuming dream to become the greatest swimmer of all time. But the 37-year-old disclosed that none of his 60 plus gold medals, including a record 23 in the Olympics, weighs more than his current career as a mental health advocate. After years of hiding his depression, Phelps told AFP in an interview at the "Demain le sport" (Sports Tomorrow) forum in Paris, his post-swimming career was even busier than his punishing schedule in the pool. "I'd rather have the opportunity to save a life than win another gold medal because this is way more important," said Phelps. "We have lost way too many Olympic athletes to suicide. I don't want to lose any more of my Olympic family members." Phelps' depression first emerged in 2004, the year of his first Olympics in Athens when he won eight medals including six gold. "Competing was one of my favourite things. I was a shark and smelt blood in the water and kept going," he said. He feared opening up would be "a sign of weakness, giving competitors an edge," adding: "I went through a period where I didn't want to be alive." Phelps, who was involved in the making of a documentary 'The Weight of Gold', praised tennis star Naomi Osaka and gymnastics great Simone Biles for their openness. Also Read: It has been a perfect journey, I would do it all over again: Roger Federer breaks down in his farewell speech "I have to applaud Naomi," he told AFP. "She went on her social media platform and expressed what she was going through in her own words. That's not the easiest thing to do." "If you look at Simone Biles, she had that happen to her at the largest moment in her career." "It shows you how unexpected a mental health illness is. It can pop up like that," he said clicking his fingers. "We need more and more people who are opening up to share to lower down these walls, these boundaries that people have built up." Now the father of three boys aged six, four and three, Phelps says his life with wife Nicole is "non stop, busier than it was before, travelling all over the world, working with sponsors or doing motivational speeches." "(Nicole) can tell you there are days when I wake up and I feel great and the next day I can wake up and be a completely different human, so it's just trying to find that balance. This is going to be an ongoing journey that may never get solved." "Finding ways to be your authentic self. I swim, we've built a gym in our garage. I write a journal. We have a handful of tools that I can reach and use, that's just because of the work we've done to get to this point." Also Read: WATCH: Rafael Nadal cannot hold back tears as rival Roger Federer bids emotional farewell to tennis Phelps retired in 2016, after making a comeback for the Rio Olympics after a two-year hiatus from the sport. "It helped me to transition into that next chapter which is now mental health and to be able to find something that I'm passionate about and I struggle with. "It's like a win-win." With no nostalgia for the punishing sport, Phelps said there was "zero chance" of following in the footsteps of his coach Bob Bowman. "In general you find the greats in sport aren't the best in coaching, look at Wayne Gretzky, he tried to coach an NHL team and that did not go very well," he said. A role in USA Swimming or world governing body FINA are a possibility but, "not right now". "I definitely wouldn't say no, but a lot needs to happen, there needs to be a lot of changes to be honest." But he remains tuned into the issues of the sport and is in favour of an 'open category' for transgender swimmers. "I think there should be three classes men, women, trans, give everyone an equal opportunity to stand up and race."

I'd rather save a life than win another gold medal: Michael Phelps finds new focus in mental health fight

FINA&nbsp;has approved a cap designed for afro and big hairstyles to be worn in its competitions at every level following a review, swimming's world governing body said on Friday. FINA&nbsp;had announced in July last year it would review whether the Soul Cap product designed to fit over dreadlocks, braids and afros could be used if there was no advantage to be gained from using them. That decision came after some media reports had quoted&nbsp;FINA&nbsp;as saying that the cap could not be used at last year's Tokyo Olympics as it did not fit "the natural form of the head".

"I'm delighted that this swim cap has joined&nbsp;FINA's approved swimwear list,"&nbsp;FINA&nbsp;Executive Director Brent Nowicki told Reuters. "This announcement follows... review and discussion on cap design close between&nbsp;FINA&nbsp;and Soul Cap over the past year. "Promoting diversity and inclusivity is at the heart of&nbsp;FINA's work, and it is very important that all aquatic athletes have access to the appropriate swimwear." Manufacturers Soul Cap welcomed the decision by&nbsp;FINA&nbsp;to add the cap to its approved swimwear list from Sept. 1. "It's been a long road getting here, with plenty of ups and downs on the way," it said in a statement on its website. "But the truth is: we couldn't have done it without you. So from everyone here at Soul Cap, we want to thank all of you in the swim community for coming together to share your voices and raise awareness about accessibility and inclusion in the sport."

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Black swimmers are outnumbered in elite swimming, with the sport seeking to break down socio-economic barriers. British Olympian Alice Dearing, who is Black, had partnered with Soul Cap to help promote greater diversity, with some young Black women reportedly put off swimming because of hair issues.

FINA has approved a cap designed for afro and big hairstyles to be worn in its competitions at every level following a review, swimming's world governing body said on Friday.

FINA has approved a cap designed for afro and big hairstyles to be worn in its competitions at every level following a review, swimming's world governing body said on Friday. FINA had announced in July last year it would review whether the Soul Cap product designed to fit over dreadlocks, braids and afros could be used if there was no advantage to be gained from using them. That decision came after some media reports had quoted FINA as saying that the cap could not be used at last year's Tokyo Olympics as it did not fit "the natural form of the head". "I'm delighted that this swim cap has joined FINA's approved swimwear list," FINA Executive Director Brent Nowicki told Reuters. "This announcement follows... review and discussion on cap design close between FINA and Soul Cap over the past year. "Promoting diversity and inclusivity is at the heart of FINA's work, and it is very important that all aquatic athletes have access to the appropriate swimwear." Manufacturers Soul Cap welcomed the decision by FINA to add the cap to its approved swimwear list from Sept. 1. "It's been a long road getting here, with plenty of ups and downs on the way," it said in a statement on its website. "But the truth is: we couldn't have done it without you. So from everyone here at Soul Cap, we want to thank all of you in the swim community for coming together to share your voices and raise awareness about accessibility and inclusion in the sport." ALSO READ | LIV Golf recruit Cameron Smith among nominees for PGA Tour Player of the Year award Black swimmers are outnumbered in elite swimming, with the sport seeking to break down socio-economic barriers. British Olympian Alice Dearing, who is Black, had partnered with Soul Cap to help promote greater diversity, with some young Black women reportedly put off swimming because of hair issues.

FINA gives nod to competition use of caps designed for afro hair

Istanbul, a historic megalopolis of 16 million residents, is not normally thought of as a seaside resort. But here, you can swim between two seas and two continents. Ghadi Francis tells you more on The West Asia Post.

The West Asia Post: Swimming between 2 seas and 2 continents in Istanbul

Ace Indian swimmer Srihari Nataraj bettered the best Indian time en route a third place finish in heat 2 but could not qualify for the final of the men's 200m backstroke event at the Commonwealth Games here on Tuesday. Nataraj clocked 2:00.84s to be the first reserve in the event.

His previous best was 2:01.70s, which had come during the FINA World junior swimming championships in 2019. 
In swimming, a timing is considered a national record only when it has been achieved at the National Aquatics Championships.

Hence, the timings clocked in other meets are called the best Indian time. Luke Greenbank of England won the heat with a timing of 1:56.33s, while South Africa's Pieter Coetze finished second clocking 1:58.08s.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg22-india-vs-malaysia-badminton-mixed-team-finals-all-you-need-to-know-about-telecast-streaming-details-502797">India vs Malaysia Badminton Mixed Team finals: All you need to know about telecast, streaming details</a>

The best eight swimmers from the three heats qualified for the final. The Indian finished ninth overall and has been kept as the first reserve, which means if anybody pulls out before the final, he would sneak in.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg22-couldnt-even-afford-chicken-meal-gold-medallist-lifter-achinta-sheulis-mother-narrates-struggles-502844">‘Couldn’t afford chicken meal’ - Gold medallist lifter Achinta Sheuli’s mother shares struggles</a>

Nataraj missed out on a direct final berth by just 0.19 seconds. Nataraj had earlier finished fifth, his best-ever result in the CWG, in the men's 50m backstroke final with a timing of 25.23 seconds.

Later in the day, two more Indian swimmers, Advait Page and Kushagra Rawat will compete in the men's 1500m free style event.

Ace Indian swimmer Srihari Nataraj bettered the best Indian time en route a third place finish in heat 2 but could not qualify for the final of the men's 200m backstroke event at the Commonwealth Games here on Tuesday.

Ace Indian swimmer Srihari Nataraj bettered the best Indian time en route a third place finish in heat 2 but could not qualify for the final of the men's 200m backstroke event at the Commonwealth Games here on Tuesday. Nataraj clocked 2:00.84s to be the first reserve in the event. His previous best was 2:01.70s, which had come during the FINA World junior swimming championships in 2019. In swimming, a timing is considered a national record only when it has been achieved at the National Aquatics Championships. Hence, the timings clocked in other meets are called the best Indian time. Luke Greenbank of England won the heat with a timing of 1:56.33s, while South Africa's Pieter Coetze finished second clocking 1:58.08s. Also Read: India vs Malaysia Badminton Mixed Team finals: All you need to know about telecast, streaming details The best eight swimmers from the three heats qualified for the final. The Indian finished ninth overall and has been kept as the first reserve, which means if anybody pulls out before the final, he would sneak in. Also Read: ‘Couldn’t afford chicken meal’ - Gold medallist lifter Achinta Sheuli’s mother shares struggles Nataraj missed out on a direct final berth by just 0.19 seconds. Nataraj had earlier finished fifth, his best-ever result in the CWG, in the men's 50m backstroke final with a timing of 25.23 seconds. Later in the day, two more Indian swimmers, Advait Page and Kushagra Rawat will compete in the men's 1500m free style event.

CWG 2022: Srihari Nataraj registers best Indian time in 200m backstroke, but fails to enter final

The Commonwealth Games 2022 edition kicked off on Thursday (July 28) with an emphatic opening ceremony event, held in Birmingham. PV Sindhu was India's flagbearer, along with men's hockey team captain Manpreet Singh, as the focus now shifts on the talented and power-packed Indian contingent in the showpiece event.

Given that the Indian team performed exceptionally well in the Tokyo Olympics, held last year, and the Asian giants ended in the third spot in the 2018 edition of the CWG, at Gold Coast, expectations are high from them, despite javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra's absence (ruled out due to groin injury).

The opening day's schedule is an action-packed one with several Indian sporting stars in action, such as the Harmanpreet Kaur-led India women's cricket team, Savita Punia's women's hockey team, table tennis stars such as Sharath Kamal, Manika Batra, etc.&nbsp;Here's a look at Team India's schedule for Day 1:

Cricket

India will open their campaign versus&nbsp;Australia in their Group A match, which will commence at&nbsp;3:30 PM (IST).

Hockey

India's hockey team will square off&nbsp;with Ghana in their Pool A match at 6:30 PM.

Table tennis

Manika Batra, Sathiyan Gnanasekaran, Sanil Shetty, Achanta Sharath Kamal, Harmeet Desai,&nbsp;Sreeja Akula,&nbsp;Reeth Tennison and&nbsp;Diya Chitale will all feature in the first round at 2:00 PM.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-from-pv-sindhu-to-bajrang-punia-full-schedule-of-indian-athletes-in-showpiece-event-501360">CWG 2022: From PV Sindhu to Bajrang Punia! Full schedule of Indian athletes in showpiece event</a>

Cycling

Mayuri Lute, Triyasha Paul, Shushikala Agashe will be in action&nbsp;in the Women's Team Sprint Qualification. Meanwhile, the likes of Rojit Tanglem, Ronaldo Laitonjam and Esow Alben will feature in the Men's Team Sprint Qualification.

Swimming

Srihari Nataraj, Ashish Kumar, Kushagra Rawat and Sajan Prakash will hope to go through to the semi-finals via a qualification round, which is scheduled at 11:00 PM

Triathlon (3:30 PM and 5:30 PM)

Adarsh MS, Vishwanath Yadav will be part of&nbsp;the Men's Individual (Sprint Distance) Final whereas the likes of Sanjana Joshi and Pragnya Mohan will take part&nbsp;in the Women's Individual (Sprint Distance) Final.

Squash (4:30 PM) 
Joshna Chinappa, Saurav Ghosal, Abhay Singh, Sunayna Kuruvilla, Ramit Tandon and Anahat Singh will take [art in the Singles Preliminary Round of 64.

Boxing (4:30 PM, 11:00 PM &amp; 11:30 PM) 
Shiva Thapa, Sumit Kundu, Rohit Tokas and Ashish Chaudhary are the boxers from Team India&nbsp;in action.

Lawn Bowl (1:00 PM, 7:30 PM)

Dinesh Kumar, Nayanmoni Saikia,&nbsp;Chandan Singh, Sunil Bahadur, Mridul Borgohain, Navneet Singh, Rupa Tirkey, Tania Choudhury, Pinki/Nayanmoni Saikia and Lovely Choubey will be part of the action on the opening day.

Gymnastics 
Saif Tamboli, Yogeshwar Singh and Satyajit Mondal will be part of&nbsp;the Men's Team Qualification &amp; Individual Qualification at 1:30 PM.

The Commonwealth Games 2022 edition kicked off on Thursday (July 28) with an emphatic opening ceremony event, held in Birmingham. PV Sindhu was India's flagbearer, along with men's hockey team captain Manpreet Singh, as the focus now shifts on the talented and power-packed Indian contingent in the showpiece event.

The Commonwealth Games 2022 edition kicked off on Thursday (July 28) with an emphatic opening ceremony event, held in Birmingham. PV Sindhu was India's flagbearer, along with men's hockey team captain Manpreet Singh, as the focus now shifts on the talented and power-packed Indian contingent in the showpiece event. Given that the Indian team performed exceptionally well in the Tokyo Olympics, held last year, and the Asian giants ended in the third spot in the 2018 edition of the CWG, at Gold Coast, expectations are high from them, despite javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra's absence (ruled out due to groin injury). The opening day's schedule is an action-packed one with several Indian sporting stars in action, such as the Harmanpreet Kaur-led India women's cricket team, Savita Punia's women's hockey team, table tennis stars such as Sharath Kamal, Manika Batra, etc. Here's a look at Team India's schedule for Day 1: Cricket India will open their campaign versus Australia in their Group A match, which will commence at 3:30 PM (IST). Hockey India's hockey team will square off with Ghana in their Pool A match at 6:30 PM. Table tennis Manika Batra, Sathiyan Gnanasekaran, Sanil Shetty, Achanta Sharath Kamal, Harmeet Desai, Sreeja Akula, Reeth Tennison and Diya Chitale will all feature in the first round at 2:00 PM. ALSO READ | CWG 2022: From PV Sindhu to Bajrang Punia! Full schedule of Indian athletes in showpiece event Cycling Mayuri Lute, Triyasha Paul, Shushikala Agashe will be in action in the Women's Team Sprint Qualification. Meanwhile, the likes of Rojit Tanglem, Ronaldo Laitonjam and Esow Alben will feature in the Men's Team Sprint Qualification. Swimming Srihari Nataraj, Ashish Kumar, Kushagra Rawat and Sajan Prakash will hope to go through to the semi-finals via a qualification round, which is scheduled at 11:00 PM Triathlon (3:30 PM and 5:30 PM) Adarsh MS, Vishwanath Yadav will be part of the Men's Individual (Sprint Distance) Final whereas the likes of Sanjana Joshi and Pragnya Mohan will take part in the Women's Individual (Sprint Distance) Final. Squash (4:30 PM) Joshna Chinappa, Saurav Ghosal, Abhay Singh, Sunayna Kuruvilla, Ramit Tandon and Anahat Singh will take [art in the Singles Preliminary Round of 64. Boxing (4:30 PM, 11:00 PM & 11:30 PM) Shiva Thapa, Sumit Kundu, Rohit Tokas and Ashish Chaudhary are the boxers from Team India in action. Lawn Bowl (1:00 PM, 7:30 PM) Dinesh Kumar, Nayanmoni Saikia, Chandan Singh, Sunil Bahadur, Mridul Borgohain, Navneet Singh, Rupa Tirkey, Tania Choudhury, Pinki/Nayanmoni Saikia and Lovely Choubey will be part of the action on the opening day. Gymnastics Saif Tamboli, Yogeshwar Singh and Satyajit Mondal will be part of the Men's Team Qualification & Individual Qualification at 1:30 PM.

CWG 2022, Day 1 for Team India: Harmanpreet-led Indian eves, women's hockey stars, Manika & Co. in action

India`s Srihari Nataraj qualified for the men`s 100m backstroke swimming semifinal at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham on Friday. Nataraj finished third in heat 4 with a timing of 54.68s. While Sajan Prakash was eliminated in the men`s 50m butterfly event as he finished eighth with a time of 25.01s. In Men`s 400m Freestyle heats, Kushagra Rawat finished 14th with a clocking of 3:57.45.

Meanwhile, in the triathlon, India was unsuccessful in their first triathlon appearance in the Commonwealth Games as Adarsh Muralidharan finished 30th and Vishwanath Yadav finished 33rd in the men`s individual sprint final. Adarsh Muralidharan finished with a time of 1:00:38 and Vishwanath Yadav finished with a time of 1:02:52. England`s Alex Yee won the first gold medal of the Commonwealth Games on Friday, taking victory in the men`s triathlon. Later in the day, the women`s hockey team will face Ghana. The mixed badminton team would also be in action in the evening.

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Shiva Thapa bags easy win in round one

Indian boxer Shiva Thapa defeated Pakistan`s Suleman Baloch 5-0 in the first round of the men`s 63 Kg weight category here at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham on Friday. India started their campaign in the boxing arena on a winning note. The Indian light welter boxer led in all three rounds of the match. Thapa displayed a good mix of attack and defence and got a full score from every judge.Shiva Thapa will now play in the round of 16 of this category.Thapa looked confident about his chances in the match as the bell went off. Throughout the bout, Thapa moved well and tested his opponent. Baloch tried to set it up but Thapa kept his calm and also adopted an aggressive approach. Thapa`s swift moves and heavy punches proved difficult for Suleman Baloch.

India`s Srihari Nataraj qualified for the men`s 100m backstroke swimming semifinal at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham on Friday. Nataraj finished third in heat 4 with a timing of 54.

India`s Srihari Nataraj qualified for the men`s 100m backstroke swimming semifinal at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham on Friday. Nataraj finished third in heat 4 with a timing of 54.68s. While Sajan Prakash was eliminated in the men`s 50m butterfly event as he finished eighth with a time of 25.01s. In Men`s 400m Freestyle heats, Kushagra Rawat finished 14th with a clocking of 3:57.45. Meanwhile, in the triathlon, India was unsuccessful in their first triathlon appearance in the Commonwealth Games as Adarsh Muralidharan finished 30th and Vishwanath Yadav finished 33rd in the men`s individual sprint final. Adarsh Muralidharan finished with a time of 1:00:38 and Vishwanath Yadav finished with a time of 1:02:52. England`s Alex Yee won the first gold medal of the Commonwealth Games on Friday, taking victory in the men`s triathlon. Later in the day, the women`s hockey team will face Ghana. The mixed badminton team would also be in action in the evening. ALSO READ | CWG 2022: Manika Batra leads women's TT team to convincing win vs South Africa Shiva Thapa bags easy win in round one Indian boxer Shiva Thapa defeated Pakistan`s Suleman Baloch 5-0 in the first round of the men`s 63 Kg weight category here at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham on Friday. India started their campaign in the boxing arena on a winning note. The Indian light welter boxer led in all three rounds of the match. Thapa displayed a good mix of attack and defence and got a full score from every judge.Shiva Thapa will now play in the round of 16 of this category.Thapa looked confident about his chances in the match as the bell went off. Throughout the bout, Thapa moved well and tested his opponent. Baloch tried to set it up but Thapa kept his calm and also adopted an aggressive approach. Thapa`s swift moves and heavy punches proved difficult for Suleman Baloch.

CWG 2022: Srihari Nataraj qualifies swimming semi-finals, boxer Shiva Thapa bags easy win

Canadian swimmer Mary-Sophie Harvey said on Instagram on Wednesday that she was drugged on the final night of the World Championships, during which time she suffered a rib sprain and a concussion. The Tokyo Olympian said she woke up "completely lost" with her team manager and doctor at her side, with no recollection of a four-to-six-hour window of time during the incident.

The 22-year-old discovered "dozens of bruises" on her body after traveling home the next day and said she was compelled to share her experience as "these situations sadly happen too many times." "I'm still scared to think about the unknowns of that night," she wrote in her social media post. "I'm still in a way, ashamed of what happened, and I think I always will be... But I won`t let this event define me."

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The 2019 Pan American silver medallist collected bronze in Budapest as part of Canada`s 4x200 metres relay team at the swimming world championships, which ended on June 25. FINA did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Canadian swimmer Mary-Sophie Harvey said on Instagram on Wednesday that she was drugged on the final night of the World Championships, during which time she suffered a rib sprain and a concussion.

Canadian swimmer Mary-Sophie Harvey said on Instagram on Wednesday that she was drugged on the final night of the World Championships, during which time she suffered a rib sprain and a concussion. The Tokyo Olympian said she woke up "completely lost" with her team manager and doctor at her side, with no recollection of a four-to-six-hour window of time during the incident. The 22-year-old discovered "dozens of bruises" on her body after traveling home the next day and said she was compelled to share her experience as "these situations sadly happen too many times." "I'm still scared to think about the unknowns of that night," she wrote in her social media post. "I'm still in a way, ashamed of what happened, and I think I always will be... But I won`t let this event define me." ALSO READ | U.S. basketballer Brittney Griner admits Russian drugs charge, denies intent The 2019 Pan American silver medallist collected bronze in Budapest as part of Canada`s 4x200 metres relay team at the swimming world championships, which ended on June 25. FINA did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Swimmer Mary-Sophie Harvey makes heads turn, reveals she was drugged on last night of World C'ships

Olympic diving champion Tom Daley said he is "furious" at governing body FINA`s decision to restrict the participation of transgender athletes in elite women`s competitions. Daley, who came out as gay in 2013, was speaking at the British LGBT Awards on Friday, where he was named Sports Personality of the Year after winning gold in the 10-metre synchronised platform diving event at the Tokyo Olympics.

Transgender rights has become a major talking point as sports seek to balance inclusivity while ensuring there is no unfair advantage.

"I was furious," he said of FINA`s decision, which bans athletes who have been through any part of male puberty from elite women`s competition.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fina-bars-transgenders-athletes-in-womens-competitions-will-other-sporting-bodies-follow-suit-490377">FINA bars transgenders athletes in women's competitions: Will other sporting bodies follow suit?</a>

FINA also said it would create a working group to establish an "open" category for transgender athletes as part of its new policy, which covers events in swimming, diving, water polo, artistic swimming, high diving and open water swimming.

"You know, like most queer people, anyone that`s told that they can`t compete or can`t do something they love just because of who they are, it`s not on," the 28-year-old told iNews.

"It`s something I feel really strongly about. Giving trans people the chance to share their side."

World Athletics and FIFA are among a number of governing bodies reviewing their guidelines on the involvement of transgender athletes following FINA`s ruling, which is the strictest by any Olympic sports body.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/incusiveness-or-unfair-advantage-debate-over-trans-athletes-in-sports-intensifies-492057">Inclusiveness or unfair advantage? Debate over trans athletes in sports intensifies</a>

While FINA engaged leading scientists on the taskforce which drew up its rules, advocates for transgender inclusion argue that not enough studies have yet been done on the impact of transition on physical performance.

Former Olympic medallist Sharron Davies, a vocal campaigner for a more restrictive policy, said FINA was "standing up for fair sport for females".

"Swimming will always welcome everyone no matter how you identify but fairness is the cornerstone of sport."

Olympic diving champion Tom Daley said he is "furious" at governing body FINA`s decision to restrict the participation of transgender athletes in elite women`s competitions.

Olympic diving champion Tom Daley said he is "furious" at governing body FINA`s decision to restrict the participation of transgender athletes in elite women`s competitions. Daley, who came out as gay in 2013, was speaking at the British LGBT Awards on Friday, where he was named Sports Personality of the Year after winning gold in the 10-metre synchronised platform diving event at the Tokyo Olympics. Transgender rights has become a major talking point as sports seek to balance inclusivity while ensuring there is no unfair advantage. "I was furious," he said of FINA`s decision, which bans athletes who have been through any part of male puberty from elite women`s competition. Also Read: FINA bars transgenders athletes in women's competitions: Will other sporting bodies follow suit? FINA also said it would create a working group to establish an "open" category for transgender athletes as part of its new policy, which covers events in swimming, diving, water polo, artistic swimming, high diving and open water swimming. "You know, like most queer people, anyone that`s told that they can`t compete or can`t do something they love just because of who they are, it`s not on," the 28-year-old told iNews. "It`s something I feel really strongly about. Giving trans people the chance to share their side." World Athletics and FIFA are among a number of governing bodies reviewing their guidelines on the involvement of transgender athletes following FINA`s ruling, which is the strictest by any Olympic sports body. Also Read: Inclusiveness or unfair advantage? Debate over trans athletes in sports intensifies While FINA engaged leading scientists on the taskforce which drew up its rules, advocates for transgender inclusion argue that not enough studies have yet been done on the impact of transition on physical performance. Former Olympic medallist Sharron Davies, a vocal campaigner for a more restrictive policy, said FINA was "standing up for fair sport for females". "Swimming will always welcome everyone no matter how you identify but fairness is the cornerstone of sport."

Olympic diving champion Tom Daley 'furious' over FINA's transgender ruling

Sarah Sjostrom, who has been winning world titles for 13 years, and Summer McIntosh, who has been winning them for four days, both collected their second gold medals of the week in Budapest on Saturday. Sjostrom, a 28-year-old Swede who won the 50m butterfly less than 24 hours earlier, added the 50m freestyle, her 10th world gold.

McIntosh, a Canadian 15-year-old, held off 16-year-old American Katie Grimes to win the women's 400m medley title. McIntosh, who won the 200m butterfly gold on Wednesday, claimed her fourth medal in Budapest in four minutes and 32.04 seconds.

Grimes was 0.63sec back, while another American, Emma Weyant, was a distant third ahead of Hungarian 33-year-old Katinka Hosszu, the defending champion.

"I tried to push my body as much as possible," said McIntosh. "The crowd gave me so much adrenaline. I really felt my body in the backstroke.

"Katie is a top competitor, I like racing against her since we are in the same age group."

Sjostrom finished her sprint in 23.98 seconds, 0.20sec ahead of Pole Katarzyna Wasick, with Australian Meg Harris and American Erika Brown tied for bronze. The Swede took her first European title at 14 and her first world title a year later in 2009. This was her 20th world championship medal.

"Maybe my mindset and also a lot of hard work, but also I love what I do," she said of her longevity.

Sjostrom narrowly missed another medal when she anchored Sweden to fourth in the women's 100m medley relay that closed the championships.

"It's been a busy four days for me," she said.

"I feel like it's business for me too, I just go in and do my job I guess.”

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The United States won, anchored by 17-year-old Claire Curzan. Australia were second and Canada, with Penny Olesiak holding off Sjostrom, third. The men's 50m backstroke gold medal was presented twice, with the US anthem played twice. In the first race of the evening, Justin Ress was disqualified after video review for finishing entirely under water as he touched the wall first.

His training buddy Hunter Armstrong was awarded gold, winning in 24.14 seconds. Ksawery Masiuk, a 17-year-old Pole, initially took silver, 0.35sec back, with Italian Thomas Ceccon, who set a 100m backstroke world record on Monday, taking the bronze on loan.

Armstrong wiped a tear away as he stepped off the podium after accepting the gold in the evening's first medal ceremony.

"I'm very disappointed my team-mate was disqualified and hopefully Team USA's protest will be successful," he said.

He got his wish, when a jury upheld the appeal. Ress came out alone to stand on the top step of the podium and receive his medal in the last medal ceremony of the championships.

Ceccon had taken pre-emptive revenge by swimming the breaststroke leg as Italy edged the Americans, the reigning champions and world record holders, in the 100m medley relay final. Britain were third.

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That was a fifth gold for Italy after Gregorio Paltrinieri earlier swum the second-fastest time in men's 1500m freestyle history to win his third world title in the distance. The 27-year-old Italian surged away from the start, setting a breakneck pace.&nbsp;He was on world record pace for much of the race before fading at the end to finish in 14min 32.80sec and miss Sun Yang's mark by 1.78sec.

American Bobby Finke was second, 3.90sec back, with Florian Wellbrock third at 4.14. Paltrinieri said he had been motivated by finishing fourth out in the 800m

"I came out with the mindset that I wanted to destroy the pool," he said after becoming the oldest ever 1500m world champion.&nbsp;

"I'm 28 in a couple of months," he said."But I'm still learning"&nbsp;

Lithuanian Ruta Meilutyte won her first world gold since 2013 when she edged Italian 17-year-old Benedetta Pilato by 0.10sec in the women's 50m breaststroke final. South African Lara van Niekerk was third. Meilutyte had not won a major championship medal of any colour since 2015. "It's nice to be a world champion," she said. 
&nbsp;

Sarah Sjostrom, who has been winning world titles for 13 years, and Summer McIntosh, who has been winning them for four days, both collected their second gold medals of the week in Budapest on Saturday.

Sarah Sjostrom, who has been winning world titles for 13 years, and Summer McIntosh, who has been winning them for four days, both collected their second gold medals of the week in Budapest on Saturday. Sjostrom, a 28-year-old Swede who won the 50m butterfly less than 24 hours earlier, added the 50m freestyle, her 10th world gold. McIntosh, a Canadian 15-year-old, held off 16-year-old American Katie Grimes to win the women's 400m medley title. McIntosh, who won the 200m butterfly gold on Wednesday, claimed her fourth medal in Budapest in four minutes and 32.04 seconds. Grimes was 0.63sec back, while another American, Emma Weyant, was a distant third ahead of Hungarian 33-year-old Katinka Hosszu, the defending champion. "I tried to push my body as much as possible," said McIntosh. "The crowd gave me so much adrenaline. I really felt my body in the backstroke. "Katie is a top competitor, I like racing against her since we are in the same age group." Sjostrom finished her sprint in 23.98 seconds, 0.20sec ahead of Pole Katarzyna Wasick, with Australian Meg Harris and American Erika Brown tied for bronze. The Swede took her first European title at 14 and her first world title a year later in 2009. This was her 20th world championship medal. "Maybe my mindset and also a lot of hard work, but also I love what I do," she said of her longevity. Sjostrom narrowly missed another medal when she anchored Sweden to fourth in the women's 100m medley relay that closed the championships. "It's been a busy four days for me," she said. "I feel like it's business for me too, I just go in and do my job I guess.” Also Read: FINA bars transgenders athletes in women's competitions: Will other sporting bodies follow suit? The United States won, anchored by 17-year-old Claire Curzan. Australia were second and Canada, with Penny Olesiak holding off Sjostrom, third. The men's 50m backstroke gold medal was presented twice, with the US anthem played twice. In the first race of the evening, Justin Ress was disqualified after video review for finishing entirely under water as he touched the wall first. His training buddy Hunter Armstrong was awarded gold, winning in 24.14 seconds. Ksawery Masiuk, a 17-year-old Pole, initially took silver, 0.35sec back, with Italian Thomas Ceccon, who set a 100m backstroke world record on Monday, taking the bronze on loan. Armstrong wiped a tear away as he stepped off the podium after accepting the gold in the evening's first medal ceremony. "I'm very disappointed my team-mate was disqualified and hopefully Team USA's protest will be successful," he said. He got his wish, when a jury upheld the appeal. Ress came out alone to stand on the top step of the podium and receive his medal in the last medal ceremony of the championships. Ceccon had taken pre-emptive revenge by swimming the breaststroke leg as Italy edged the Americans, the reigning champions and world record holders, in the 100m medley relay final. Britain were third. Also Read: Serena Williams will be difficult to beat but not a favourite to win Wimbledon 2022 title: Nandan Bal That was a fifth gold for Italy after Gregorio Paltrinieri earlier swum the second-fastest time in men's 1500m freestyle history to win his third world title in the distance. The 27-year-old Italian surged away from the start, setting a breakneck pace. He was on world record pace for much of the race before fading at the end to finish in 14min 32.80sec and miss Sun Yang's mark by 1.78sec. American Bobby Finke was second, 3.90sec back, with Florian Wellbrock third at 4.14. Paltrinieri said he had been motivated by finishing fourth out in the 800m "I came out with the mindset that I wanted to destroy the pool," he said after becoming the oldest ever 1500m world champion. "I'm 28 in a couple of months," he said."But I'm still learning" Lithuanian Ruta Meilutyte won her first world gold since 2013 when she edged Italian 17-year-old Benedetta Pilato by 0.10sec in the women's 50m breaststroke final. South African Lara van Niekerk was third. Meilutyte had not won a major championship medal of any colour since 2015. "It's nice to be a world champion," she said.

Veteran Sarah Sjostrom, Canadian teenager Summer McIntosh complete world swimming doubles

Australia`s Mollie O`Callaghan stormed to victory to take the women`s 100 metres freestyle gold while Americans Lilly King and Ryan Murphy took gold in the women`s 200m breaststroke and the men`s 200m backstroke at the swimming world championships on Thursday.

Zac Stubblety-Cook of Australia followed up his Olympic gold in 200m breastroke with a repeat at the Duna Arena while the United States men won the 4x200m relay. O`Callaghan was third in the final 50 but raced into the lead in the last few metres to beat favourite and world record holder Sarah Sjoestroem of Sweden, who took the silver, while American Torri Huske was third.

The Australian clocked 52.67 seconds to take gold, 0.13 seconds ahead of Sjoestroem while Huske was just a quarter of a second behind. "I`m so excited, I really don`t know what to say. I wasn`t expecting that at all. I`m racing some amazing girls here," O`Callaghan said after winning her first individual gold at the world championships.

O`Callaghan had set the fastest time in the semi-finals to earn a spot in lane four and she was unfazed in the final stretch with Sjoestroem and Huske, the 100m butterfly champion, on either side. The field was blown wide open with defending champion and twice-Olympic gold medallist Simone Manuel not competing while O`Callaghan`s compatriot Shayna Jack withdrew from the championships after breaking her hand during a training session.

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After missing the podium in the 100m breaststroke, King claimed her first world title in the 200m breaststroke with a time of 2:22.41. King led at the 50m mark yet fell back to fifth by the final turn but had saved enough for a powerful final length.

Australia`s Jenna Strauch took silver and American Kate Douglass won bronze. The absence of Olympic champion Evgeny Rylov of Russia left the field open for the men`s 200m backstroke and Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Murphy took full advantage.

Murphy had never won an individual gold at a world championships but had won in both 100m and 200m backstroke at the Rio Olympics in 2016. Stubblety-Cook was the clear favourite in the 200m breast, especially with his rival Arno Kamminga of the Netherlands pulling out in the semis.

But the 23-year-old was in the seventh spot at the 100 mark but it was soon clear that was part of his gameplan and he powered through the second half of the race to victory. The Queenslander finished in a time of 2:07.07, well short of his world record time but 1.31 ahead of Japan`s Yu Hanaguruma with Sweden`s Erik Persson taking bronze.

The American won the 4x200m freestyle relay with ease, finishing 3.26 ahead of Australia with Britain`s Tom Dean producing an impressive final leg to earn bronze.

Australia`s Mollie O`Callaghan stormed to victory to take the women`s 100 metres freestyle gold while Americans Lilly King and Ryan Murphy took gold in the women`s 200m breaststroke and the men`s 200m backstroke at the swimming world championships on Thursday.

Australia`s Mollie O`Callaghan stormed to victory to take the women`s 100 metres freestyle gold while Americans Lilly King and Ryan Murphy took gold in the women`s 200m breaststroke and the men`s 200m backstroke at the swimming world championships on Thursday. Zac Stubblety-Cook of Australia followed up his Olympic gold in 200m breastroke with a repeat at the Duna Arena while the United States men won the 4x200m relay. O`Callaghan was third in the final 50 but raced into the lead in the last few metres to beat favourite and world record holder Sarah Sjoestroem of Sweden, who took the silver, while American Torri Huske was third. The Australian clocked 52.67 seconds to take gold, 0.13 seconds ahead of Sjoestroem while Huske was just a quarter of a second behind. "I`m so excited, I really don`t know what to say. I wasn`t expecting that at all. I`m racing some amazing girls here," O`Callaghan said after winning her first individual gold at the world championships. O`Callaghan had set the fastest time in the semi-finals to earn a spot in lane four and she was unfazed in the final stretch with Sjoestroem and Huske, the 100m butterfly champion, on either side. The field was blown wide open with defending champion and twice-Olympic gold medallist Simone Manuel not competing while O`Callaghan`s compatriot Shayna Jack withdrew from the championships after breaking her hand during a training session. ALSO READ | FINA's 'Open category' proposal under scanner, faces questions over fairness and viability After missing the podium in the 100m breaststroke, King claimed her first world title in the 200m breaststroke with a time of 2:22.41. King led at the 50m mark yet fell back to fifth by the final turn but had saved enough for a powerful final length. Australia`s Jenna Strauch took silver and American Kate Douglass won bronze. The absence of Olympic champion Evgeny Rylov of Russia left the field open for the men`s 200m backstroke and Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Murphy took full advantage. Murphy had never won an individual gold at a world championships but had won in both 100m and 200m backstroke at the Rio Olympics in 2016. Stubblety-Cook was the clear favourite in the 200m breast, especially with his rival Arno Kamminga of the Netherlands pulling out in the semis. But the 23-year-old was in the seventh spot at the 100 mark but it was soon clear that was part of his gameplan and he powered through the second half of the race to victory. The Queenslander finished in a time of 2:07.07, well short of his world record time but 1.31 ahead of Japan`s Yu Hanaguruma with Sweden`s Erik Persson taking bronze. The American won the 4x200m freestyle relay with ease, finishing 3.26 ahead of Australia with Britain`s Tom Dean producing an impressive final leg to earn bronze.

Australia's Mollie O''Callaghan secures 100m freestyle gold, Ryan Murphy clinches gold in 200m backstroke

US artistic swimmer Anita Alvarez, who was dramatically rescued from the bottom of the pool after fainting in her solo routine, was omitted from a revised startlist just before the team competition began on Friday. Alvarez, who fainted at the end of her routine at the World Championships on Wednesday, had been on all previous versions of the startlist for the US eight-woman team but was replaced by Yujin Chang just before the 1600 local time (1400 GMT) start.

A FINA official said the swimming organisation had asked Alvarez to undergo a full medical examination Friday morning but said he did not know the result.&nbsp; Alvarez fainted and dropped to the bottom at the end of her individual routine and was saved by her quick-thinking coach, Andrea Fuentes. When Fuentes saw Alvarez, who was unconscious throughout, sinking and lifeguards standing watching, she had no hesitation in diving to the bottom of the pool and dragging the swimmer to the surface.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-pics-nick-of-time-coach-saves-us-swimmer-anita-alvarez-who-fainted-fell-to-bottom-of-pool-490863">In Pics | Nick of time: Coach saves US swimmer Anita Alvarez who fainted, fell to bottom of pool</a>

AFP's underwater robot camera captured astonishing images as the drama unfolded."I think she was at least two minutes without breathing because her lungs were full of water," said Fuentes, a four-time Olympic artistic swimming medallist, adding that the swimmer's heart was beating.

The USA artistic team released a statement from Fuentes on Thursday saying Alvarez had fainted due to the effort expended during the routine.&nbsp; "This happened to her once last year at the Olympic Qualification Tournament when competing her duet," an US spokeswoman added.

US artistic swimmer Anita Alvarez, who was dramatically rescued from the bottom of the pool after fainting in her solo routine, was omitted from a revised startlist just before the team competition began on Friday.

US artistic swimmer Anita Alvarez, who was dramatically rescued from the bottom of the pool after fainting in her solo routine, was omitted from a revised startlist just before the team competition began on Friday. Alvarez, who fainted at the end of her routine at the World Championships on Wednesday, had been on all previous versions of the startlist for the US eight-woman team but was replaced by Yujin Chang just before the 1600 local time (1400 GMT) start. A FINA official said the swimming organisation had asked Alvarez to undergo a full medical examination Friday morning but said he did not know the result. Alvarez fainted and dropped to the bottom at the end of her individual routine and was saved by her quick-thinking coach, Andrea Fuentes. When Fuentes saw Alvarez, who was unconscious throughout, sinking and lifeguards standing watching, she had no hesitation in diving to the bottom of the pool and dragging the swimmer to the surface. ALSO READ | In Pics | Nick of time: Coach saves US swimmer Anita Alvarez who fainted, fell to bottom of pool AFP's underwater robot camera captured astonishing images as the drama unfolded."I think she was at least two minutes without breathing because her lungs were full of water," said Fuentes, a four-time Olympic artistic swimming medallist, adding that the swimmer's heart was beating. The USA artistic team released a statement from Fuentes on Thursday saying Alvarez had fainted due to the effort expended during the routine. "This happened to her once last year at the Olympic Qualification Tournament when competing her duet," an US spokeswoman added.

Young American swimmer Anita Alvarez, who fainted in solo event, not on team event startlist

World swimming`s governing body FINA is setting up a working group to look into creating an `open category` to ensure inclusivity after voting to restrict transgender women from competing in elite women`s competition. But before the working group has even begun to consider exactly how an open category would work, the concept has already been dismissed by trans athletes.

Details of who would be eligible to compete in an `open category` and what events such a division would feature in have yet to emerge with FINA giving itself six months to formulate a plan. So far FINA has said that the open category would offer opportunities for athletes "without regard to their sex, their legal gender, or their gender identity".

But Veronica Ivy, trans cyclist and twice UCI Masters world champion, said the proposal was an "extreme indignity". "FINA`s choice to force trans women into an `open` category with cisgender men is an unethical non-starter," she told Reuters in an interview.

"It is the very definition of `separate but equal` and an extreme indignity to the women affected. Trans women are legally, socially, and medically women; we are legally, socially, and medically female. "We ought to race with women and international sports federations need to cease placing limits on who is `woman` or `female` enough," she said.

So far, the only idea floated for swimming has come from the World Swimming Coaches Association, which produced a position statement before FINA`s congress on Sunday. "Through a re-categorisation process, the sport of swimming should offer an alternative competitive model which would ensure inclusion and fairness," said the statement. Although they have not submitted a proposal to FINA, the statement suggests two options.

The first is to turn the men`s category into an `open category` alongside a protected `female category`. The alternative option is to have female and male categories and a third open category which would allow those not eligible or not willing to compete in the sex-based categories to enter races.

The coaches also suggested that the sport could create a Trans Division and possibly hold trans meetings. 
"The Trans Females will race each other. The Trans Males will race each other. There is an argument that the Trans Males have been completely lost in this debate because they are uncompetitive in our current structure. This would also allow those of indeterminate gender to be factored into such a solution," said the statement. But Caitlyn Jenner, who announced her transition from Olympic gold medallist Bruce Jenner to Caitlyn in 2015, has questioned whether there are enough trans athletes to make such a system viable.

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"They talk about having a different division for trans athletes, there aren`t enough trans athletes in the world to have another competition. Right now, I only know of one trans swimmer and that is Lia Thomas, there are just not enough people out there," she said. Jenner suggested FINA had used the idea of an open category as a "whitewash" to soften the impact of their vote for a restrictive move -- a move the American however supports.

Trans woman motor racing driver Charlie Martin is firmly against the idea. "It is not a solution to create an open category where trans women can be placed in limbo, effectively ending their professional careers and right to compete," she said.

The issue is likely to remain a contentious point of debate for some time however. On Thursday, Badminton`s governing body became the latest to undertake a review of its guidelines. World Athletics and FIFA are among the governing bodies also reviewing their transgender inclusion policies.

World swimming`s governing body FINA is setting up a working group to look into creating an `open category` to ensure inclusivity after voting to restrict transgender women from competing in elite women`s competition.

World swimming`s governing body FINA is setting up a working group to look into creating an `open category` to ensure inclusivity after voting to restrict transgender women from competing in elite women`s competition. But before the working group has even begun to consider exactly how an open category would work, the concept has already been dismissed by trans athletes. Details of who would be eligible to compete in an `open category` and what events such a division would feature in have yet to emerge with FINA giving itself six months to formulate a plan. So far FINA has said that the open category would offer opportunities for athletes "without regard to their sex, their legal gender, or their gender identity". But Veronica Ivy, trans cyclist and twice UCI Masters world champion, said the proposal was an "extreme indignity". "FINA`s choice to force trans women into an `open` category with cisgender men is an unethical non-starter," she told Reuters in an interview. "It is the very definition of `separate but equal` and an extreme indignity to the women affected. Trans women are legally, socially, and medically women; we are legally, socially, and medically female. "We ought to race with women and international sports federations need to cease placing limits on who is `woman` or `female` enough," she said. So far, the only idea floated for swimming has come from the World Swimming Coaches Association, which produced a position statement before FINA`s congress on Sunday. "Through a re-categorisation process, the sport of swimming should offer an alternative competitive model which would ensure inclusion and fairness," said the statement. Although they have not submitted a proposal to FINA, the statement suggests two options. The first is to turn the men`s category into an `open category` alongside a protected `female category`. The alternative option is to have female and male categories and a third open category which would allow those not eligible or not willing to compete in the sex-based categories to enter races. The coaches also suggested that the sport could create a Trans Division and possibly hold trans meetings. "The Trans Females will race each other. The Trans Males will race each other. There is an argument that the Trans Males have been completely lost in this debate because they are uncompetitive in our current structure. This would also allow those of indeterminate gender to be factored into such a solution," said the statement. But Caitlyn Jenner, who announced her transition from Olympic gold medallist Bruce Jenner to Caitlyn in 2015, has questioned whether there are enough trans athletes to make such a system viable. ALSO READ | In Pics | Nick of time: Coach saves US swimmer Anita Alvarez who fainted, fell to bottom of pool "They talk about having a different division for trans athletes, there aren`t enough trans athletes in the world to have another competition. Right now, I only know of one trans swimmer and that is Lia Thomas, there are just not enough people out there," she said. Jenner suggested FINA had used the idea of an open category as a "whitewash" to soften the impact of their vote for a restrictive move -- a move the American however supports. Trans woman motor racing driver Charlie Martin is firmly against the idea. "It is not a solution to create an open category where trans women can be placed in limbo, effectively ending their professional careers and right to compete," she said. The issue is likely to remain a contentious point of debate for some time however. On Thursday, Badminton`s governing body became the latest to undertake a review of its guidelines. World Athletics and FIFA are among the governing bodies also reviewing their transgender inclusion policies.

FINA's 'Open category' proposal under scanner, faces questions over fairness and viability

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