Pan Zhanle won the 100 freestyle at Chinese Nationals in Hangzhou with a time of 47.91.
He finished ahead of Zhang Shanshuo, Wang Haoyu, and Chen Juner.
## What happened at Chinese Nationals?
Pan Zhanle's victory is a significant step towards regaining his top ranking.
He owns the world record in the 100 freestyle with a time of 46.40, set at the Paris Olympics two years ago.
## Why it matters for Pan Zhanle
A disappointing 2025 saw Pan Zhanle miss the World Championships final.
He is now focused on contending with the rest of the world in the 400 free relay.
Pan Zhanle and his compatriots have the speed to compete at the highest level.
## What comes next for Pan Zhanle?
The Chinese Nationals continue with more events, including the 400 free relay.
Pan Zhanle will look to build on his victory and regain his spot atop the rankings.
Other notable winners at Chinese Nationals include Wang Shun in the 200 IM and Yu Zidi in the 200 butterfly.
Wang Shun topped the 200 IM with a time of 1:56.16, ahead of Xie Yichen and Gu Enyi.
Yu Zidi won the 200 butterfly with a time of 2:06.12, not far off her season-best of 2:05.71.
Xu Jiayu dominated the men's 100 backstroke with a time of 52.47, beating Jiang Chenglin and Wang Zicheng.
Tang Qianting won the 50 breaststroke with a time of 29.95, ahead of Yang Chang and Yu Yiting.
Li Bingjie won a tight 1500 free final with a time of 16:06.81, just edging out Gao Weizhong and Ma Yonghui.
Pan Zhanle's world record in the 100 freestyle, set at the Paris Olympics, stands at 46.40.
He will look to break this record again and solidify his position as a top swimmer.
The Chinese Nationals will continue to feature top swimmers competing for medals and recognition.
Pan Zhanle's victory is a significant step towards achieving his goals in the swimming world.