Adam Ramsay-Peaty’s difficult European Aquatics Championships continued as he failed to reach the 50m breaststroke semi-finals in Paris, saying he was confused and frustrated by his performances. The former Olympic and world champion’s early exit follows disappointing results in the 100m breaststroke and mixed medley relay, marking a sharp contrast with his previously dominant record at the event.

The 31-year-old finished eighth in his heat in 27.34 seconds, placing 20th overall when only the fastest 16 progressed; his world record is 25.95 seconds. Ramsay-Peaty attributed much of the problem to his start and how he is entering the water, an area he has been working on with coach Lisa Bates since June. Fellow Briton Filip Nowacki also missed the semi-finals, finishing 18th.