Phelps content with 2nd in 200 free heats

World and Olympic champion Michael Phelps was unconcerned about posting only the second fastest time in morning heats for the 200-meter freestyle at the world championships in Rome today.Paul Biedermann of Germany beat the swimmer who won a record eight gold medals at last year's Beijing Olympics.Phelps won the final heat, but Biedermann's time in the previous heat was faster.

"That's fine. I'll be in the first heat tonight," Phelps said, looking ahead to the evening semifinals. Three championship records were set in other events — by Gemma Spofforth of Britain in the women's 100-meter backstroke, Rebecca Soni of the United States in the 100 breaststroke and Aschwin Wildeboer of Spain in the men's 100 back.

Six world records were set Sunday on the opening day of swimming at the Foro Italico, with this likely the last meet where bodysuits made of 100 percent polyurethane will be permitted. Olympic silver medalist Matt Grevers barely qualified for the semifinals in the 100 back in 16th position after his TYR swimsuit split apart just before he jumped in the pool.

"I didn't completely freak out but definitely I was conscious of it," Grevers said, showing a two-inch rip by his lower back. "Luckily I made it in. Hopefully I'll do better tonight." Biedermann won the 200 free heats in 1 minute, 45.30 seconds. Swimming his first individual event, Phelps clocked 1:45.60, and Danila Izotov of Russia qualified third in 1:45.86. Phelps holds the world record of 1:42.96 set at last year's Beijing Olympics.