Regan Smith started strong in the 100 back prelims at the Paris Olympics 2024, winning her heat with a time of 58.45 seconds.

What happened?

She qualified just behind fellow American Katharine Berkoff, setting up the U.S. as the top seeds in the 100 back semifinals tonight.

Regan Smith and Kaylee McKeown will go head-to-head in both backstroke events, promising exciting races.

Why it matters for Regan Smith

Smith set a new world record in the 100 back at the U.S. Olympic trials, which she said was a long time coming, and she's looking to bring home a medal.

The world record in the 100 back is 57.13 seconds, set by Regan Smith in 2024.

What comes next?

The 100 back semifinals will take place tonight, with Regan Smith and Katharine Berkoff as the top seeds.

Regan Smith will face tough competition from Kaylee McKeown, who holds the Olympic record in the event with a time of 57.47 seconds.

The women's 100 back final will be a highly anticipated event, with Regan Smith and Kaylee McKeown expected to be top contenders.

Regan Smith's performance in the 100 back prelims has set the stage for a thrilling final.

The Paris Olympics 2024 have already seen exciting moments, including the women's 200 free final, where Australia's Mollie O'Callaghan beat Ariarne Titmus.

Regan Smith's world record in the 100 back has made her a favorite to win in the event.

But Kaylee McKeown will be a tough competitor, and the final is expected to be a close race.

The 100 back semifinals will be an important step for Regan Smith as she works towards the final.

With her smooth 58.45 seconds in the prelims, Regan Smith has shown she's ready for the challenge.

The crowd is eagerly awaiting the 100 back final, which promises to be an exciting event.

Regan Smith's experience and skill make her a strong contender for the gold medal.

As the competition heats up, Regan Smith remains focused on her goal of winning the 100 back final.

The Paris Olympics 2024 have been full of surprises, but Regan Smith's performance in the 100 back has been impressive so far.