Ledecky likes her chances in blockbuster 400m freestyle

PARIS: Katie Ledecky Wednesday threw down the gauntlet to Ariarne Titmus and Summer McIntosh ahead of a blockbuster 400m Olympic freestyle showdown, warning: “I like my chances.”

The decorated American, a seven-time gold medallist, will start one of the Olympic’s most anticipated races on Saturday at La Defense Arena as the underdog based on times this year. But the 27-year-old has long proved she can never be written off and was in a fighting mood when asked about her chances.

“I’m looking forward to the 400 free, day one. I like my chances,” she said. “I feel like I’m prepared and ready to race and that’s all you can ask for.” Ledecky will have to raise her game to better Australia’s Titmus in the shorter distance.