MESA, Ariz. -- Michael Phelps is back, and beating the top American swimmers in his signature event once more.

Phelps won the men's 100-meter butterfly final here at the Arena Pro Swim Series event in 52.38 seconds, finishing ahead of rival Ryan Lochte (53.11) and the rest of a strong field.

Thursday night's event marked the first competitive race for the 18-time Olympic gold medalist since his six-month suspension following his drunken driving arrest last September.

Courtesy- USA Today