'Could do with a heart rate check': Ian Thorpe's rare display of elation as Cameron McEvoy claims historic gold medal

In a rare show of elation, Australian swimming legend Ian Thorpe delivered a passionate call as he witnessed Cameron McEvoy make history.

McEvoy collected Australia's ninth gold medal in Paris with his victory and helped erase the lingering disappointment from his venture in Rio in 2016.

He is the first Australian to win a medal in the event since its inaugural race at the 1988 Seoul Olympics.

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Thorpe, who is known to remain calm in commentary, and cohost Giaan Rooney could not contain their emotions as McEvoy etched in front at the 25m mark.

"It's McEvoy. McEvoy. Come on McEvoy.

"Yes. Yes," Thorpe called on Nine.

Combined with Rooney's squeals, the atmosphere of the race was alive and echoing throughout La Defense Arena.

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"I am so happy for Cam McEvoy," Ian Thorpe said in commentary for Nine.

"We waited so long to see this athlete be the athlete that he actually is.

"It's his first time. We've never won a medal in this. What a great way to start it. Let's keep up with sticking to gold in this one."

"Can you imagine back in 2016 when he was the favourite to win in Rio and it just didn't come together for him? He's put it together tonight in the most spectacular fashion," Rooney added.

"We could do with a heart rate check on our commentary team right now."

Mat Thompson said: "I feel like I'm going to faint. Brilliant, exhilarating, everything you love about the Olympics".

Thorpe praised the swimming veteran's perseverance and commitment to the sport.

"He has been able to deliver what he's always wanted to accomplish, what he's always wanted to do. And what we've always known he could do."

"I love that Cam McEvoy has owned everything that he has set himself out to do.

"He's taken full ownership and full disclosure, 'This is what I am setting myself up for. This is what I want to accomplish'."