LEDECKY ENDURES FIRST LOSS AT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
For the first time ever at the world championships, Katie Ledecky knows what it’s like to lose. Bidding to become the second female swimmer to win six golds at a single worlds, Ledecky settled for silver in the 200-meter freestyle Wednesday evening when Italy’s Federica Pellegrini surged to a stunning victory on the final lap in Budapest, Hungary. Pellegrini, the world recordholder, avenged a close defeat at the hands of Ledecky two years ago in Kazan, Russia. This time, it was the Italian touching first in 1 minute, 54.73 seconds. Ledecky and Australia’s Emma McKeon tied for the silver at 1:55.18. “I just didn’t really have it today,” Ledecky said. “I can’t complain really with the silver medal.” Ledecky had been 12-for-12 over three world championships, including three golds in this stately European capital. But her most audacious schedule yet — six freestyle events covering distances ranging from 100 meters (on a relay) to 1,500 (the grueling metric mile) — finally caught up with her along the banks of the Danube. Missy
Franklin will remain the only female swimmer to win a halfdozen events at worlds, while Ledecky can take comfort in being the winningest female swimmer overall. Twelve golds leave her trailing only fellow Americans Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte for the most victories.