Ryan Lochte: 'I'm glad Michael Phelps is back'

American swimmer Ryan Lochte has admitted that he is "glad" to see long-time rival Michael Phelps return to the pool following a drink-driving ban.

Phelps beat Lochte to first place in the 100m butterfly at the Arena Pro Swim Series in Mesa, Arizona, but the 30-year-old said that he relishes the competition.

"I'm just glad he's back," Lochte told reporters.

"He's the hardest racer in the world. He'll go toe to toe with you in any event, and I love that, because it's a challenge whenever you go up on those blocks with him."

Phelps, who was suspended for six months, will also compete in the 100m backstroke, 400m freestyle, 200m individual medley and 100m freestyle at Mesa.