OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Another star from the London Olympics has flopped at the U.S. swimming trials. This time, it was Missy Franklin missing out on a chance to defend her title in the 100-meter backstroke.
The 21-year-old Franklin finished seventh in the final Tuesday night, more than a second behind winner Olivia Smoliga.
It was a stunning fall for the swimmer who captured four golds and a bronze in 2012, though not totally surprising given her recent performances. Franklin has struggled since turning pro last summer and barely qualified for the final, forcing her to swim in the undesirable first lane.