Budapest 2024, Day 6 Finals: Ruta Meilutyte Defends Title in 50 Breaststroke; Claims Fourth Overall Gold in Event
When Ruta Meilutyte was locked out of the final of the 100-meter breaststroke earlier in the week, it appeared the Lithuanian might be off form at the World Short Course Championships in Budapest. Instead, she answered the call in the 50 breaststroke on Sunday, claiming the gold medal at Duna Arena.
In front from the start, Meilutyte was never challenged en route to capturing the title in 28.54, which was .32 clear of China’s Tang Qianting, who earned the silver medal. Tang was the gold medalist earlier in the meet in the 100 breaststroke. The bronze medal went to American Lilly King, who touched the wall in 28.91, with Italian Benedetta Pilato placing fourth in 29.11.
Although she did not threaten her world record of 28.37, as was the case in the semifinals, Meilutyte posted a decisive triumph and defended her gold medal from two years ago in Melbourne. More, it was the fourth short-course world title in the event for the veteran, who was the 2012 Olympic champion in the 100 breaststroke at the 2012 Games in London.
Known for her quick start, Meiltutyte was the first off the blocks and maintained her initial advantage throughout the two laps, never allowing Tang to challenge. Meilutyte also continued to prove there are second chapters to careers. At one point retired from the sport, Meiltutye returned to action and has continued to pile up medals in international competition.
While Tang complemented her earlier gold in the 100 breaststroke with silver at half the distance, King’s bronze medal followed her earlier silver in the 100 distance. It was also her 13th career medal from the World Short Course Championships.
