Mankoč clocked a time of 52.64 seconds, 0.75 seconds slower than the winner, Vladimir Morozov of Russia. Martti Aljand of Estonia was third (52.92s).

The current world record-holder in the event confirmed after the race that it was likely his last in major competitions. But the 34-year-old left the door open to appearing in the relay race at next year's World Championship in Barcelona if called up by the coaches.

"I'm delighted with this medal. I wasn't even expecting to appear at these championships and by no means was I expecting to be this quick. I'm more than pleased with my last race at a European Championships," said Mankoč, a nine-time European champion in the 100 metres short-course medley.

Mankoč's medal was the third of the competition for Slovenia, after the men's medley team won silver on Friday and Damir Dugonjič won bronze in the 50 metres breaststroke on Saturday.