Australian women swimmers rallied to break the world record as they beat the United States to win the 4x100m medley relay title Saturday, the last day of the swimming competition at the Olympic Games.

Australian swimmers celebrate at the reward podium after winning the women's 4x100 medley relay gold with a world record of 3:57.32 at the 28th Olympic Games,August 21, 2004.

Australia came from behind to win in a new world record time of three minutes 57.32, shaving 0.98 off the previous world mark set by defending champions United States in Sydney four years ago.

100m butterfly champion Petria Thomas overtook Jenny Thompson when Australia grabbed the lead and 100m free winner Jodie Henry held it through.

"I am so happy. It was the last chance to get up and win. The girls did an awsome swim and my race was pretty good," said Henry, who set a new world record in the 100m free in the semifinal.

The United States had to settle for the runners-up place in 3: 59.12 while Germany came third in 4:00.72.

The 31-year-old Thompson became the most decorated swimmer in the Olympic history after she collected a total of 12 medals from four Olympics including two silvers in Athens.

"That was my last ever Olympic race," said Thompson. "I am so proud of the women in my team."

World champions China finished fourth, 6.03 off the pace.

Following are the women's 4x100m medley relay results at the Olympic Games here on Saturday:

1. Australia, 3:57.32

2. United States, 3:59.12

3. Germany, 4:00.72

4. China, 4:03.35

5. Japan, 4:04.83

6. Netherlands, 4:07.36

7. Spain, 4:07.61

Source: Xinhua