Sjöström, who is making a championship comeback after becoming a mother last year, is the gold favourite in the event, where she holds the European record (25.05).
It was as usual, I woke up in the morning, had breakfast, went to the swimming pool and jumped in. It's not that much new. It felt good. I'm happy, says Sarah Sjöström and continues:
It's always nice to get started. There are always a few nerves, but I feel that after each race I will get a better feeling. I haven't had time to talk to the coach but there is probably something I can improve. I haven't had time to reflect on it yet. I'm just happy that I managed to get back to this level.
Sara Junevik also advanced to the semifinals with the fifth-fastest time, 25.86. Louise Hansson was eighth fastest in 26.06, but was eliminated because only two from each country can advance.
The 50-metre butterfly semifinals will be decided tonight and the final on Wednesday evening.
Sjöström will also swim the 50-metre freestyle in the European Championships.
Born: August 17, 1993 (age 32).
Family: Married to Johan de Jong Skierus, son Adrian, almost a year old.
Main achievements, Olympics: 3 gold, 2 silver, 1 bronze, World Championships (long course): 14 gold, 8 silver, 3 bronze, World Championships (short course): 6 gold, 4 silver, 1 bronze, European Championships (long course): 17 gold, 7 silver, 4 bronze, European Championships (short course): 12 gold, 13 silver, 1 bronze.
