Olympics: Dressel leads USA to 4x100m freestyle relay triumph

PARIS: A formidable United States team, led by an emotional Caeleb Dressel, claimed the men’s 4x100m freestyle relay gold on Saturday, marking the country’s first victory in the Paris Olympics. The quartet of Jack Alexy, Chris Guiliano, Hunter Armstrong, and Dressel finished in 3:09.28, with Australia taking silver (3:10.35) and Italy securing bronze (3:10.70).

The Americans, reigning champions, faced an early challenge as China’s Pan Zhanle set a blistering pace in the opening leg. However, the US team clawed back, with Dressel’s powerful anchor leg securing the win. Australia’s Kyle Chalmers delivered the fastest split of the race, claiming silver for his team.

China, competing under a doping cloud, finished fourth. The US has historically dominated this event, winning 10 out of 14 times before Paris.

For Dressel, 27, this gold marked his eighth Olympic medal. Reflecting on the moment, he said, “You can’t explain this moment. Seeing the flag go up was really special.” After winning five golds in Tokyo, Dressel took a break before returning to qualify for Paris.

(Source: AFP)