Italian swimming champion Federica Pellegrini has become the first woman ever to secure a place in the 200m freestyle final in five consecutive Olympic games. It is the latest record for the six-time world champion over 200m and 400m freestyle who is the only swimmer − male or female − to have won eight medals in a row in the same event (200m freestyle) at the World Championships.

Speaking to Italian state broadcaster RAI from Tokyo, an emotional Pellegrini was asked what the final represents for her. "20 years of my life," she replied. The star, known as La Divina, also confirmed it would be her last Olympic competition, after qualifying for the final with the seventh fastest time (1'56''44). "I am overjoyed" - she told RAI - "this was my main goal for this Olympics."