The most successful swimmer Michael Phelps could not hide his emotions after winning his 22nd gold medal at the Olympics. The phenomenal swimmer triumphed in the 200 meters, which was the fourth consecutive victory for Phelps in the discipline at the Olympic games.
“I often say that the dream of my life came true! From childhood I wanted to do something that nobody has done before. So, every win means a lot to me, and even after 22 gold medals I am still emotional on the podium,” Michael Phelps said in an interview.
The legendary swimmer confirmed that he will end his career after the end of the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. For Phelps, this is the fifth Olympics!
“This week was exceptional for me. Today was my last start in the 200-meters discipline. My whole body hurts a lot! My legs hurt. I’m very, very tired,” 31-year-old Phelps said.
The American did not have much time to enjoy the success of the 200 meters combined swimming. Only 35 minutes after the triumph, he qualified for the final in the 100 meters butterfly, where he will also pursue his fourth consecutive gold medal in this discipline at the Olympics.
Phelps recorded the fifth best time in the semifinal series of 100 meters butterfly – 51.58 seconds. He is the biggest favourite for winning the discipline.
In conclusion, it is always sad when one of the greatest sportsmen decides to retire from professional sport. However, Michael Phelps will probably always remain the best swimmer at the Olympics ever! During the last 16 years, the American has shown a great consistency in his swimming, that no other athlete has ever achieved. I will remind you, that he made his debut at the Olympics in 2000, when he was only 15 years old. Since then, he has become the most successful swimmer ever!