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ROME, Italy, July 28. IN a surprising turn of events, Germany's Paul Biedermann smashed Michael Phelps' world record in the men's 200 free with an upset over Phelps at the FINA World Championships.
Biedermann checked in with a 1:42.00 to knock nearly a second from Phelps' world record of 1:42.96 set at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Phelps could not handle Biedermann's final 50 meters as he faded to silver with a 1:43.22, which is the third-fastest time of all time.
"I actually don't think I managed it from the start," Biedermann said. "My only chance to beat Phelps was during swimming. I don't think Phelps was in his form. I hope the next time we meet he is at his best. The suits make an impact, they make you faster. I hope they get banned next year. I hope I can challenge Michael next year without the suits."
Russia's Danila Izotov finished with bronze in 1:43.90 to become the third man to ever break 1:44 in the event.
Japan's Sho Uchida (1:45.24), Australia's Kenrick Monk (1:45.46), South Africa's Jean Basson (1:45.67), The Netherlands' Sebastiaan Verschuren (1:46.05) and Russia's Nikita Lobintsev (1:46.33) completed the final heat's swims.