AUSTIN, Texas (AP) – Katie Ledecky broke her own world record in the women’s 800-meter freestyle Sunday night, finishing in 8 minutes, 6.68 seconds in the Arena Pro Swim Series.
The 18-year-old American smashed her mark of 8:07.39 set at the 2015 world championships in Russia.
Ledecky has dominated the event since 2013 and owns nine of the top 10 times in history.
She wasn’t challenged Sunday night as the crowd, knowing she was on record pace, cheered her on. American Becca Mann was second, but far back at 8:24.49.
Ledecky’s record came shortly after Michael Phelps beat Olympic teammate and longtime rival Ryan Lochte in the 200 individual medley. Lochte led after two lengths, only to be caught over the final 10 meters as Phelps ripped through the freestyle leg to win in 1:58.00. Lochte was second at 1:58.43.