GWANGJU, South Korea, July 21 (Xinhua) -- Triple Olympic champion Sun Yang revealed he was honored and proud to win a record fourth straight 400m freestyle title at the FINA World Aquatics Championships here on Sunday.
Starting as he meant to go on, Sun led all the way to win in 3:42.44 for his fourth consecutive 400m triumph and his 10th individual gold medal at the FINA World Championships. Australia's Mack Horton took silver in 3:43.17 and Gabrile Detti of Italy finished third in 3:43.23.
"It was the greatest honor for me that I did it four times in a row and became the first one to do that. I just wanted to show the world that I am the king of the event. It is a good start for my team, China," Sun said.
"No one can keep up such high level at my age in this event, as most of my rivals are younger. No one knows and understands what efforts I have made during these years since I first won in 2013. I hope all of you come and watch my daily training."
Sun said he wanted to be a spiritual pillar for China's young swimmers. "I am the eldest one in the team and competing in my seventh worlds. I want to pass my fighting spirit down to all my younger swimmers and boost their confidence."
27-year-old Sun was emotional when he was greeted by the cheers, flags and banners from the Chinese fans in the arena.
"I am grateful to all the supporters, my team and the fans. I want to show my best to them and make them proud of me," Sun said.
Discussing Horton's refusal to stand on the podium next to him, Sun said: "Not everyone likes me. I don't care about it. It is also OK if you don't respect me personally, but during the victory ceremony, which is the most important event, we all represent our countries, you should stand on the podium, and show your respect to my country China and your country Australia and to the audience."
Sun is now tied second with Ryan Lochte of the United States with 10 individual gold medals in the Worlds. The USA's Michael Phelps still leads the table with 15 golds from individual events.
Sun will also compete in the 200m and 800m and relay events in Gwangju.
