Olympic Top Achievers
Back
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1 of 7
Next
If individual excellence is used as a criterion then Beijing 2008 clearly belonged to Michael Phelps. The 23-year-old long armed (his arm span measures 6 feet 7 inches) American won eight gold medals in swimming with seven of them being world records. Only in 100m butterfly did he win with an Olympic record and only in 4x100m relay did Phelp's campaign seemed in danger - rest were all emphatic wins. With a rich haul of 16 medals (14 gold, two bronze) in two Olympics, this 'Baltimore Bullet' has set a record of winning highest number of gold medals in Olympics. In terms of total career Olympic medals he is only two medals short of Soviet gymnast Larissa Latynina record of 18 medals (nine gold) spanning three Games.
Back
Next
Latest Galleries on AOL
Taking a Beach Break: Yes, he's still swimming but Olympic champ Michael Phelps also played some American football
Famous Television Politicians: As the world waits for Obama to don the mantle, we take a look at famous politicians on TV
10 Responsible Things To Do in 2009: Kickstart the new year on the right note
In High Places: Robbie Maddison looks back after having jumped his bike more than 100 feet high.
New Year rituals: Sumo wrestlers performing 'Dohyo-iri' (ring purification ritual) at the Meiji Shrine in Tokyo.
Memorable Outfits Worn at the Golden Globes: From Scarlett Johansson's red dress to Lara Flynn Boyle's ballet outfit.
Bush unplugged: Outgoing US President George Bush never fails to amuse!
Apple man's journey: Tracing the journey of Apple CEO Steve Jobs from his start-up days to his current cult status.
