Michael Phelps is widely regarded as the greatest Olympian of all time, and for good reason. With an unmatched collection of 28 Olympic medals—including a staggering 23 gold medals—he has redefined what’s possible in competitive swimming and inspired millions around the world.Born on June 30, 1985, in Baltimore, Maryland, Michael Fred Phelps II grew up in a family passionate about the water. His journey from a hyperactive kid with ADHD to the most decorated athlete in Olympic history is nothing short of legendary. Let's dive into the life, achievements, and lasting legacy of this swimming icon.Early Life and Rise to StardomPhelps started swimming at age 7, partly as an outlet for his boundless energy. He joined the prestigious North Baltimore Aquatic Club under coach Bob Bowman, who would become his lifelong mentor. By age 11, he held national age-group records, and at just 15, he became the youngest man (in 68 years) to make the U.S. Olympic team for the 2000 Sydney Games.Though he didn't medal in Sydney, the experience fueled his fire. In 2001, at age 15, he broke his first world record in the 200-meter butterfly, becoming the youngest male swimmer ever to set a world mark. This early success hinted at the dominance to come.Olympic Dominance: Breaking Records and Making HistoryPhelps competed in five Olympic Games (2000–2016), but his medal haul exploded starting in Athens.
- 2004 Athens Olympics — Phelps won 6 gold and 2 bronze medals, tying the single-Games record for most medals (8). He set multiple records and proved he could handle an grueling eight-event schedule.
- 2008 Beijing Olympics — The pinnacle. Phelps achieved the impossible: 8 gold medals in every event he entered, surpassing Mark Spitz's 1972 record of 7. He broke world records in seven of those races, creating one of the most iconic moments in sports history.
- 2012 London Olympics — After briefly retiring post-Beijing, Phelps returned to claim 4 gold and 2 silver medals, showing his resilience.
- 2016 Rio Olympics — In a historic comeback at age 31, he added 5 gold and 1 silver. His final race—a gold in the 4x100m medley relay—ended his career on a perfect note. He retired as the all-time leader in Olympic gold medals (23), total medals (28), individual golds (13), and individual medals (16).
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