Ariarne Titmus’ classy moment with Katie Ledecky after slaying giant

Ariarne Titmus etched her name into Australian sporting folklore after an epic race before showing she’s all class out of the pool too.

Ariarne Titmus of Team Australia and Katie Ledecky of Team United States embrace after competing in the Women's 400m Freestyle Final on day three of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Tokyo Aquatics Centre on July 26, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Ariarne Titmus has fully earned her status as a national hero after defeating the USA’s Katie Ledecky in the Women’s 400m Freestyle in what can only be described as a battle of epic proportions in the pool.

Ledecky had led for most of the race as Titmus remained within touching distance, before the Aussie burst ahead in the final 50m stretch to take home the gold medal.

The race had the nation up on their feet cheering Titmus on, and had her coach Dean Boxall going absolutely beserk.

The 20-year-old from Tasmania handed Ledecky her first loss in an individual event at the Olympics, and the American made sure to congratulate Titmus on her incredible feat.

Titmus, ever the class act, put an arm around her great rival as they left the pool deck in an admirable display of sportsmanship.

She later paid tribute to Ledecky and told her just how inspired she had been thanks to the American’s exploits in the pool.

Titmus and Ledecky share a post-race exchange after an incredible race.

“I thanked her. I wouldn’t be here without her,” Titmus said.

“She set this incredible standard. All credit to her for the swimmer she is.

“I’ve been trying to chase her. Really exciting now we have this battle going.

“It’s really fun to race.”

That amazing swim by Ariarne Titmus..her classy, dignified response and interview..reactions of her coach and family ..Dawn Fraser’s glorious smile were all just what Australians needed. A sporting triumph so many of us watched in lockdown which we will never forget ! @Tokyo2020

— NickMcCallum7 (@NickMcCallum7) July 26, 2021

Titmus and Ledecky chat in the pool after an epic race in the Women’s 400m Freestyle.

Titmus was all-smiles after an incredible duel against Katie Ledecky.

Titmus’ victory gifted Australia their second gold medal of the Tokyo Games, after the Women’s 4 x 100m Freestyle relay won in dominating fashion.

Despite her victory, Titmus will have to move on from celebrating and reset her mind as she jumps back in the pool for the 200m freestyle.