In any other race, Jack Conger would have received the big headlines. After all, he posted what now ranks as the eight-best time in the world for 2015, and one more than a second faster than any other American had swum this year headed before Friday. Instead, Conger found himself playing second fiddle to Michael Phelps and his dominating 1:52.94.
Still, don’t forget about Conger, who clocked 1:54.54 to eclipse what had been his best time entering the day by almost four seconds. Following the race, Conger spoke about what he was thinking about swimming next to – and well behind – Phelps and shared his thoughts about ranking in the nationwide top-two during the pre-Olympic year. Conger also talked about the impressive Texas butterfly squad that led the Longhorns to an NCAA title this past March and placed three in this evening’s championship final.