Proud as punch to win gold

FROM ROD GILMOUR in Budapest BEN PROUD blazed to men’s 50m freestyle gold to become Britain’s first world sprint champion last night.

Proud (above) was commanding off the blocks as he touched in 21.32secs – his fastest time for four years.

His stunning start proved crucial as he held off American Michael Andrew by 0.09secs. Victory was GB’s first gold of these world championships.

Proud said: “My body was shutting down in the last 10m, but I’m chuffed to bring this medal home.”

The Londoner had finished fourth and fifth in the last two Olympics.

Proud added: “I was in tears in Tokyo as the Olympics have been such a big thing for me, and I paid the price with my mental health.”