KAZAN, Russia (AP) — Ryan Lochte made history at the world swimming championships, becoming the first man to win the 200-meter individual medley four consecutive times.
The 31-year-old American trailed through the first three legs but came home strong on the freestyle lap and touched first in 1 minute, 55.81 seconds Thursday night.
It was Lochte’s 24th world championships medal — second only to Michael Phelps’ career total of 33 — and his 16th gold.
The U.S. has won the event seven consecutive times, starting with Phelps’ three titles in 2003, 2005 and 2007. Lochte picked up the mantle with previous victories in 2009, 2011 and 2013.
Thiago Pereira of Brazil finished second in 1:56.65 and Wang Shun of China was third in 1:56.81.
Grant Hackett of Australia won the 1,500 freestyle four times at worlds.
