Kaylee McKeown wins GOLD at the Olympic Games: Australian swimming gun gives nation much-needed boost after day to forget in Paris

Kaylee McKeown has defended her Olympic title, clinching gold once more in the thrilling 100m backstroke final in Paris.

Despite a tough day for the women’s rugby sevens team and trap shooter James Willett, who faced disappointing outcomes, McKeown maintained her composure in a fiercely contested race.

The 23-year-old triumphed over Regan Smith, the world record holder from the United States, in the final.

McKeown clocked a time of 57.33 seconds, with Smith finishing in silver medal position at 57.66 seconds.

She becomes only the second woman in history to win consecutive gold medals in the 100m backstroke at the Olympics, following American Natalie Coughlin (2004, 2008).

‘Oh, Kaylee, you are just phenomenal!’ exclaimed Giaan Rooney on Nine.

‘She has been the most formidable backstroker globally for several years. This performance truly reflects her impressive consistency over the past three years. From Tokyo to now, she has been remarkable.’

The Queenslander previously won gold in both the 100m and 200m backstroke events at the Tokyo Olympics three years ago.

She is set to defend her 200m crown on Thursday, with heats and semi-finals leading to the medal race on Friday.

Kaylee McKeown has successfully defended her Olympic gold medal in Paris

The Australian won a thrilling race in Paris to take home another gold

She beat world record holder Regan Smith to take the gold medal once again

In addition to her events, McKeown has also included the 200m individual medley in her Paris lineup, with that event’s final scheduled for Saturday.

With this victory, McKeown has now secured four gold medals in her Olympic career, having also contributed to Australia’s winning women’s 4×100 medley team in Tokyo.

She is also anticipated to compete in Australia’s medley final, set to take place on Sunday, the last day of the Paris swimming competitions.

More updates to follow.