Kosuke Hagino won the men's 200-meter individual medley in a Japan record and compatriot Daiya Seto, winner of the 400 IM a day earlier, placed third at the short-course world swimming championships on Friday.
Hagino touched the wall in 1 minute, 50.47 seconds, 0.84 ahead of five-time Olympic champion and world-record holder Ryan Lochte of the United States.
Seto completed the race in 1:51.79.
"I was out to enjoy myself. I am glad I could come in first," said Hagino, who overtook Lochte after 150 meters.
"I was happy to be able to swim together (with Lochte) on this stage. I swam well after making my turn at 175 meters."