One of Ian Thorpe's greatest swimming rivals believes the returning Olympic champion can add to his gold medal tally next year in London.
Dutchman Pieter van den Hoogenband, who won three Olympic gold medals between 2000 and 2004, says he is delighted that the Australian is coming out of his four-year retirement to make a tilt at London 2012.
And he thinks Thorpe should tackle the 100 metre freestyle to set up a showdown with American Olympic great Michael Phelps and try to claim his sixth Olympic gold.
Van den Hoogenband says he's not a fan of sporting comebacks but says Thorpe is still young and appears excited about returning to the pool.
