America's Matthew Grevers powered to gold in the men's 100 meters backstroke Monday, setting a new Olympic record along the way.
The double Beijing champion in relays was second on the turn but pushed hard in the final straight to win it in 52.16 seconds.
That easily bested Aaron Piersol's 2008 Olympic record of 52.54.
Grevers' teammate Nick Thoman claimed the silver in 52.92 seconds, with the bronze going to Japan's Ryosuke Irie, who was a split second back.
Home favorite Liam Tancock, the world record holder in the 50 meters backstroke, could only manage fifth.
