Australia's Mitch Larkin hails "fantastic" 100m backstroke world gold

Australia's Mitch Larkin has admitted that he could not be "happier" after snatching a gold medal in the 100m backstroke final at the World Championships in Kazan today.

The 22-year-old headed into the showdown fastest in the field, and he did not disappoint as he grabbed victory in 52.40s.

"I'm pretty excited with that," Larkin told Eurosport. "I can't be happier. To get three swims under 53s and to come away with the win is fantastic."

Camille Lacourt and Matt Grevers took silver and bronze respectively, while British duo Chris Walker-Hebborn and Liam Tancock finished fifth and eighth respectively.