Regan Smith won her first Olympic gold medal Saturday despite not racing, as the US mixed 4x100-meter medley relay team took gold with a world-record time of 3:37.43.
What happened?
The US team, consisting of Ryan Murphy, Nic Fink, Gretchen Walsh, and Torri Huske, held off China and Australia to win the event.
Smith swam the backstroke leg in the preliminary heat Friday, helping the US claim the fastest qualifying time.
Why it matters for Regan Smith
This gold medal adds to Smith's collection of seven career Olympic medals, including five silvers and a bronze.
Smith has won three individual silvers in Paris, leading to questions about her second-place finishes.
What comes next?
Smith is expected to swim the backstroke leg of the women's 4x100 medley relay Sunday, the last event of the swimming competition in Paris.
The US team changed out all four swimmers for the final, adjusting the gender order and choosing a male backstroker to lead off.
Smith's performance in the preliminary heat was crucial in securing the US team's spot in the final.
The world-record time of 3:37.43 is a testament to the team's hard work and dedication.
Smith's focus on racing the way she needs to race has paid off, as she now has a gold medal to add to her collection.
And with one more event to go, Smith is looking to end the Paris Olympics on a high note.
But for now, she can celebrate her first Olympic gold medal, a milestone in her career.
So what's next for Smith? She'll be back in the pool Sunday, looking to add to her medal count.
The women's 4x100 medley relay is set to be an exciting event, with the US team looking to take home another gold medal.
Smith's experience and skill will be crucial in securing a win for the US team.
As the swimming competition comes to a close, Smith is looking to make a lasting impression.
With her gold medal in hand, Smith is now focused on the next event, and the chance to add to her medal count.
The Paris Olympics have been a success for Smith so far, and she's looking to keep the momentum going.
Smith's first Olympic gold medal is a significant achievement, and she'll be looking to build on this success in the future.