Team USA snagged gold in the men’s 4x100m freestyle relay at the 2021 Olympics in Japan, silencing doubters after a disappointing qualifying.
Even though they were defending gold medalists in the men’s 4x100m freestyle relay, Team USA came into the final with question marks.
The Italian team out-qualified the American men while Australia also posed a threat.
When it came down to it, Team USA was ready.
Team USA won gold in the men’s 4x100m freestyle
Caeleb Dressel, Blake Pieroni, Bowen Becker and Zach Apple made sure the U.S added to its gold medal count with an impressive race.
The Americans led from start to finish, building up a sizable lead. Apple’s anchor leg was particularly blazing. If the race had been tighter, it might have made the difference. As it was, it was largely unnecessary in a comfortable victory.
Dressel picked up his third gold medal after snagging two in Rio five years ago. He could add more to his trophy case with medal opportunities in the 100m freestyle, 100m butterfly and 50m freestyle as the 2021 Olympics continue.