Kylie Masse misses world podium, finishing 4th in women's 100m backstroke

For the first time in four world championships, Canada's Kylie Masse failed to reach the podium in the women's 100-metre backstroke.

Masse, the 2017 and 2019 world champion, finished fourth in 59.09 seconds on Monday in Fukuoka, Japan.

Australian Kaylee McKeown won the gold medal in a world-championship record time of 57.53. Two Americans completed the podium as Regan Smith touched the wall in 57.78 to earn the silver medal, while Katharine Berkoff earned bronze in 58.25.

Calgary swimmer Ingrid Wilm placed fifth with a time of 59.31.

Masse, from Windsor, Ont., was attempting to become only the second Canadian swimmer to win a medal in fourth consecutive world championships, which would've matched swimming great Ryan Cochrane.

She will be competing in Wednesday's 50m backstroke event and likely some relay events later this week.

The 27-year-old veteran had the leaders in sight with 50 metres to go, but she couldn't catch Berkoff for bronze.

It's been a tough season for Masse with her preparation as she dealt with visa problems in a move to Spain. But she still has hopes for better results at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

"A little bit disappointed." Masse told CBC Sports reporter Devin Heroux. "I know I'm capable of a lot more than [59.09]. The 100 didn't come together this season. Now the next year is the big one [Olympic Games].

McKeown, the Olympic champion, won her first world title in the 100m backstroke.