USA star Michael Phelps records world-class time in unofficial swim

Eighteen-time Olympic gold medallist Michael Phelps recorded a world-class time at an unofficial swim in Austin, Texas last week.

The 29-year-old is currently serving a six-month competitive ban, which was implemented by USA Swimming after he was charged with drink-driving last September.

During an exhibition swim at the US short-course championships, Phelps recorded what would have been the seventh-fastest time ever in the 200-yard individual medley, according to Swimming World.

The American sportsman, who is the most successful Olympian of all time with 22 medals, swam 1:40.84, with split times of 21.58 seconds, 46.87 seconds and 1:16.63.