Seoul, Nov 16 (IANS): Australia's five-time swimming Olympic champion Ian Thorpe says he is not disappointed about his recent performances and still aims for a medal in next year's London Olympics.

The swimming legend announced his return to the pool in February after retiring in 2006. He failed to make the podium at meets this month in Singapore, Beijing and Tokyo.

"I am not disappointed at all. I expected my first race wouldn't be that fast and that is what it was," Thorpe said in a press conference marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between South Korea and Australia.

The biggest challenge for him now is the trial for the Australian Olympic team in March next year, Xinhua reported.

"It is pretty natural for anyone who has spent any time out of the pool, let alone how long I have spent. So my performance is on track, where I would like to head...and technically, I am swimming better," he said.

He didn't hide the difficulties he is facing with his comeback and compared it restarting a car after five years.

"It doesn't matter how good the car is, it is still going to be difficult and I am experiencing this," he said.

"There are...some things I need to improve on, but I think most importantly, I rediscovered love and passion for the sport. I don't think I can underestimate the value of that," added Thorpe.