Australian swimmer Ian Thorpe has said that he is pleased with the progress he has made since his return to the sport.
The 29-year-old failed to reach the final in three world championship events in the past few weeks, first in Singapore, then Beijing before he posted the 26th fastest time in Tokyo yesterday.
Despite not advancing to the latter stages at the world meets, the five-time olympic gold medallist remains positive. "This week has been challenging, but has been very good," he said.
"I wish I could have done it with no-one watching but that's unfortunately not the case. I am very comfortable with where I'm at."
Thorpe has only reached one final since his return to the sport.