Swimming enthusiasts have been spoiled at the 2024 World Aquatics Championships in Doha. It has seen it all, from many triumphs to devastating defeats. And this time, at the 100-meter freestyle race, Chinese swimmer Pan Zhanle destroyed the competition, crushing Matt King.

A total of eight men swam absolutely stunningly in the 100-meter freestyle race. But in the end, only one could win, and many American fans’ hearts were broken for the second time tonight after Matt King’s defeat.

Not a night for Matt King

The 200-meter butterfly was a disappointing event for American athlete Rachael Klinker and her supporters, as she finished fourth. The 100-meter freestyle event offered spectators a glimmer of optimism, so their focus remained on Matt King. Since Lane 1 belonged to King, it was the center of attention for the American fans throughout the event. The grid was filled up with highly competitive young swimmers, as it should be in the finals of such a big event. Zhanle dominated the opening half of the race as it got underway. Nandor Nemeth and Matt King were in second and third place, respectively, after the first 50 meters of the race, behind the Chinese swimmer.

Trending

Angel Reese Lures Michael Jordan to Do Something Which He has Never Done, Courtesy of Chicago Roots

May 06, 2024 07:43 AM EDT

Lakers News: Headache for Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka, as Ex-Coach Shuts Door on LA Return Following Ty Lue Decision

May 06, 2024 03:30 PM EDT

“This Is Just Sad at This Point” – MMA World Erupts as Alex Pereira Embarrasses Anthony Smith in Front of Thousands at UFC 301

May 05, 2024 05:04 PM EDT

Russell Wilson ‘Proud’ Despite Harsh Conditions Forcing Ciara To Cancel Las Vegas Show Amid ‘Out of This World’ Tour

May 05, 2024 03:08 PM EDT

10 Years After Backing Serena Williams’ Husband Alexis Ohanian’s Now $10 Billion Undertaking, Snoop Dogg Receives a Heartfelt Note

May 06, 2024 11:05 AM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest Swimming stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

When the tournament entered its second and last half, however, everything changed. In the midst of the last 50 meters, Matt King stunned everyone for a single second by matching the Chinese swimmer’s time. Yet, in the pool, the American swimmer struggled to maintain pace with others in the race’s final seconds. Because of this, he fell out of his position.

American Hearts Broken as Nic Fink’s Quest for Gold Ends at Doha Worlds

Pan Zhanle, the Chinese swimmer, won the event with a time of 47.53 seconds, as Matt King fell to eighth place. In second and third place, respectively, were the Italian swimmer Alessandro Miressi and the Hungarian swimmer Nandor Nemeth. As China’s first gold since Ning Zetao’s 2015 tenure, Zhanle felt a great sense of national and personal pride. Unfortunately, American supporters are still reeling after this heartbreaking defeat.

Watch this story: America’s Swimming Favorite Caeleb Dressel Embarks on a New Journey With a Hilarious 8-Word Joke