Michael Phelps edges Ryan Lochte in 100 backstroke

ATHENS, Ga. – Michael Phelps won the 100-meter backstroke on Saturday at the Bulldog Grand Slam, edging Ryan Lochte in another encouraging performance in his comeback.

Phelps, who retired after the last Olympics and avoided the pool for more than a year, finished in 53.88 seconds. Lochte was second at 54.40, and Olympian Tyler Clary finished third in 55.41.

This is the first meet for Lochte since he reinjured his surgically repaired left knee in April. He also lost to Phelps on Friday, grabbing second in the 100 butterfly.

Lochte gets another shot at Phelps when the two compete in the 100 freestyle today.