American swimmer Torri Huske has claimed the first Olympic gold medal of her career in the women's 100-meter butterfly, with teammate Gretchen Walsh finishing just behind in second place.
Torri Huske and Gretchen Walsh, two of the most decorated American swimmers in recent years, made history at the Paris Olympics on Sunday when they went 1-2 in the women's 100-meter butterfly final. Huske captured the gold medal with a narrow victory over Walsh, marking the first time the United States has claimed this event since the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
The race was a thrilling contest between the two Americans, with Huske touching the wall in 55.59 seconds and Walsh finishing in 55.63 seconds. China's Zhang Yufei took home the bronze medal, adding to her impressive medal collection at the Olympics.
Torri Huske Captures Olympic Gold in Women's 100-Meter Butterfly, Gretchen Walsh Earns Silver
Huske and Walsh have been the dominant forces in women's butterfly swimming for the past several years, and their performances in Paris were no exception. Huske had the third-quickest time in the heats with a 56.72 and finished second in the semifinals in 56 seconds flat. Walsh, meanwhile, set an Olympic record in the semifinals by clocking in at 55.38 seconds.
With Huske's gold medal victory, the United States maintained its lead in the total medal count at the Olympics with nine medals. However, the U.S. had only two gold medals at that point, highlighting the incredibly competitive nature of these Games.
Torri Huske Captures Olympic Gold in Women's 100-Meter Butterfly, Gretchen Walsh Earns Silver
The United States has a rich history of success in the women's 100-meter butterfly, with the likes of Dana Vollmer and Katie Hoff winning gold medals in the past. Huske's victory continues this legacy and solidifies her status as one of the greatest butterfly swimmers of all time.
Walsh's second-place finish is a testament to her resilience and determination. The 22-year-old already had an Olympic silver medal from the 2020 Tokyo Games, and she has now added another to her collection. Her time in the semifinals was her fastest ever, indicating that she is still capable of improving and reaching even greater heights.
Torri Huske Captures Olympic Gold in Women's 100-Meter Butterfly, Gretchen Walsh Earns Silver
The women's 100-meter butterfly final was a showcase of the tremendous talent and depth of the American swimming team. Huske and Walsh are just two of several Americans who are capable of winning medals in Paris, and their success bodes well for the U.S. as the Games progress.
The American women's swimming team has been a dominant force at the Olympics for decades, and the performances of Huske and Walsh in Paris are a continuation of this legacy. The United States is poised to win multiple medals in the pool, and the women's team is leading the charge.
