Multiple world record holder Ian Thorpe has turned down the prospect of $1 million match race againstPieter van den Hoogenband.
Australian head swimming coach Don Talbot suggested the showdown after Australian Swimming Incorporated (ASI) announced it was looking to create its own meets to raise the profile of the sport.
Talbot said a clash between Thorpe and van den Hoogenband would draw a worldwide audience.
He suggested an ASI sponsor could be persuaded to put up the cash for a head-to-head battle between the pair.
But 18-year-old Thorpe, just beaten by the Dutchman for the Olympic 200m freestyle title in Sydney six months ago, said he would be worried the clash could affect his preparation for a major meet.
"It wouldn't be the world championship, it wouldn't be the Commonwealth Games, it wouldn't be the Pan Pacific Championship, it wouldn't be the Olympic Games," Thorpe said.
"That's where I prioritise my performances and not just a race here and there." - AFP