INDIANA – American 14-time Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps beat Ian Crocker’s world record in the 100-meter butterfly  at the U.S. national championships Thursday at the Indiana University Natatorium, finishing the event in 50.22 seconds.

Crocker’s record 50.40 had been set at the world championships in Montreal in 2005.

The two swimmers have competed head-to-head in several events over the years including at the Beijing Olympics where Phelps defeated Crocker to take Gold in the 100-meter fly.

After setting the record, Phelps received a message from his rival and commented on Crocker’s ability and good sportsmanship.

“Crock actually texted me after and wished me all the luck and telling me that was my record,” Phelps said. “That meant a lot, from a competitor and a friend and a classy guy. We had amazing battles back and forth. Those are something I definitely miss.”

Phelps who is rebounding from the photo that showed the star toking on a bong will be competing at the world championships later this month in Rome.

In addition to seeing Phelps’ record-setting laps in the pool, look for him in an upcoming run of Subway sandwich commercials later this month.

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