Thompson, 21, won in 55.50 seconds Sunday, capping a remarkable comeback since she broke her left arm in a freak water-slide accident during a college fraternity party in May.
Thompson underwent surgery on June 3. She had more than 100 stitches and a plate and seven screws put in her arm, and has a six-inch scar on her forearm. She missed just 10 days of practice.
"The doctors told me before the surgery I always had next year and I told them I didn't, that I wanted this year," said Thompson.
Two years ago, Thompson was the first U.S. woman in 59 years to break the world record in the 100-meter freestyle in 54.48. Her record still stands.
With her victory here, Thompson, who won two gold medals and a silver at the Barcelona Olympics and six gold medals at the Pan Pacific Championships last August, qualified for the U.S. team at the world championships in Rome, September 1-11.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.