Libby Lenton and Jodie Henry lead the Australian charge in Friday night's much-anticipated 100m freestyle final at the FINA world titles in Melbourne.

American Natalie Coughlin set a cracking pace in the semi-finals of the glamour event on Thursday night with a time of 53.40s - the second fastest 100m time in history.

Lenton (53.85s) was the second quickest and felt she had a bit in reserve with world record holder Britta Steffen (54.05s) next best and reigning champion Jodie Henry (54.29s) qualifying sixth fastest.

Breaststroke powerhouse Leisel Jones chases her second gold medal of the week in the 200m later in the evening.

Despite the regular falling of records this week, Jones talked down the chances of lowering her own world mark.

American superstar Michael Phelps continues his remarkable campaign in the heats of the 100m butterfly on Friday morning.

In the water polo, the Australian women's team won through to Saturday's final against the United States after beating Russia 12-9 in their semi-final on Thursday night.

The win was set up by a three-goal burst by Rebecca and Melissa Rippon late in the third quarter, the sisters finishing the match with two goals each.

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