Ryan Lochte: Top American Losing Momentum After Back-to-Back Flops

Ryan Lochte came into the 2012 London Olympics with grandiose expectations after his impressive overall performance in the U.S. Olympic trials.

But, after capturing gold in glorious fashion in the 400-meter individual medley right out of the gate, Lochte has flopped in his past two races.

After losing the United States' lead in the anchor leg of the 4X100 freestyle relay on Sunday, Lochte finished a disappointing fourth place in the 200-meter freestyle on Monday. All of a sudden, America's supposed top two swimmers, Lochte and Michael Phelps, look to be on the outside looking in.

Lochte was beat out by France's Yannick Agnel in both events, and he spoke about it on Monday, via ABC News:

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"I did my best. I guess sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. I gave it 110 percent. There's probably some things I messed up on, but you live and learn. (Agnel is) a great racer. There's no doubt about it. He's quick and he showed it last night and tonight. I'm happy for him. He did good."

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There is no doubt that Agnel has had a tremendous showing thus far for the French, but the fact of the matter is that he's stepped up while the top Americans haven't. Lochte finished second in the 200-meter freestyle in qualifying—ahead of Agnel—before fading in the final on Monday.

Lochte is finding out first-hand just how difficult it is to win multiple Olympic gold medals like Phelps did in 2004 and 2008.

The 27-year-old was blistering headed into London, and it appeared he may become a force in the Olympics this year after his gold in the 400-meter individual medley, but he ultimately has disappointed in the past two events. He was largely regarded as the favorite heading into the 200-meter freestyle, given he was the reigning world champion in the event.

If placed on the team on Tuesday, Lochte will still have another chance of redemption in the 4X200 freestyle relay. But, the way things are going lately, there's a legitimate chance the American flounders.

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