Two-time world champion Xu Jiayu tied for first place with his long-time idol Ryosuke Irie of Japan in 52.97 while Matt Grever of the United States finished third in 53.71.

"It is a great honor to tie Irie for the title. I feel like to compete in the Asian Games. I am a little bit tired but faster than I did in Shenzhen. It is just a test of my winter training," Xu said.

World record holder Liu Xiang proved her reputation in the women's 50m backstroke in 27.58, Yu Jingyao continued her winning streak in the women's 200m breaststroke in 2:24.52 and Yan Zibei led the men's 100m breaststroke in 58.83.