Phelps, the former world record-holder and reigning Olympic champion, led at every turn with Lochte right on his shoulder. Both came hard off the final turn, with Lochte putting on the pressure before Phelps’ final push gave him the victory in 1min 45.70sec.

Michael Phelps competes in the second semi-final heat of the 200m butterfly event at the US Olympic swimming trials on Wednesday. Pic/AFP