Alex Popov's gold medal was priceless. It represented tangible proof that the world's fastest swimmer was back at the top, a year to the week since he nearly lost his life when stabbed in a Moscow street fight. In the blue riband 100 metres freestyle, Popov seemed almost casual, he was so languid to the turn. But he brought it home with his trade-mark high elbows and driving kick that saw him beat Sweden's Lars Frolander by half a body length. When you are 6 ft 7 in tall, as Popov is, that is a long way.

Popov's 49.09 was a championship best, surpassing his performance in Vienna two years ago. He has won this title four times.

Vladimir Selkov made the first successful title defence in the pool when he claimed the 200 metres backstroke crown for the third time in succession.