Michael Phelps

Michael Phelps is an American retired professional swimmer, born on June 30, 1985, in Baltimore, Maryland. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time. Phelps began his professional career at the age of 15 and competed in his first Olympics at Sydney in 2000.

Phelps is known for his incredible speed, endurance, and versatility in swimming. He has won numerous individual awards, including 23 Olympic gold medals, and holds multiple records such as the most Olympic gold medals by any athlete.

Off the pool, Phelps is also recognized for his philanthropy and influence, making significant charitable contributions and inspiring millions worldwide.

Early Career

• Youth and Early Career: Phelps was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland and began swimming at the age of seven. He made his first Olympics appearance in 2000.

2004 Athens Olympics

• Early Success: Phelps won 6 gold and 2 bronze medals in his second Olympic appearance in Athens, establishing himself as a dominant force in swimming.

2008 Beijing Olympics

• Record-breaking performance: In 2008, Phelps won 8 gold medals in a single Olympics, breaking the previous record held by Mark Spitz. He became an international sensation with this feat.

2012 London Olympics

• Continuing Dominance: Phelps continued his Olympic success in London 2012, adding 4 gold and 2 silver medals to his tally.

2016 Rio Olympics

• Final Olympics: In his last Olympic appearance, Phelps added 5 gold and 1 silver medal to his collection, bringing his total to a record-breaking 23 gold medals.

USA Swimming Team

• Debut: Made his debut for the USA Swimming team in 2000.

Achievements:

• Olympic Games: 23 gold medals, 3 silver, and 2 bronze.
• World Championships: 26 gold, 6 silver, and 1 bronze.
• Pan Pacific Championships: 16 gold, 3 silver, and 2 bronze.
• Phelps is the most decorated Olympian of all time.

• Skills: Known for his incredible speed, endurance, and versatility in swimming. Phelps excels in freestyle, butterfly, and medley events.

• Family: Phelps is married to Nicole Johnson and they have three children.
• Philanthropy: Phelps is involved in various charitable activities through his foundation, focusing on promoting swimming and mental health awareness.

• Michael Phelps is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his work ethic, determination, and longevity in professional swimming. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the pool, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Most Olympic Gold Medals:

• 23 gold medals

Most Medals in Olympic Games:

• 28 total medals

Most Medals in World Championships:

• 33 total medals

Most Medals in Pan Pacific Championships:

• 21 total medals

Books

• Phelps, M., Cazeneuve, B. (2009) No Limits: The Will to Succeed. New York: Free Press.
• Phelps, M., Abrahamson, A. (2012) Beneath the Surface: My Story. New York: Sports Publishing.

Websites

• Olympics: Information about Michael Phelps international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.olympics.com
• USA Swimming: Details about Phelps career in swimming. Available at: https://www.usaswimming.org

Articles

• BBC Sport: Michael Phelps: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/sport/swimming/37078110
• The Guardian: Michael Phelps career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/michael-phelps

Interviews and Documentaries

• The Weight of Gold (2020): Directed by Brett Rapkin. This documentary provides a detailed look at Phelps life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.
• ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Michael Phelps, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.espn.com