50 greatest Summer Olympians in history

1. Michael Phelps, Swimming.

Now entering his fourth Summer Olympic Games in Rio De Janeiro, 31-year-old American swimmer Michael Phelps is already — far and away — the greatest Summer Olympian of all time, notching an astounding 22 medals, including 18 gold (both records) over the previous three Olympiads.

In what was seen as a rite of passage, Phelps broke American swimmer Mark Spitz’s record of seven gold medals in one Summer Olympics, capturing eight during a legendary turn at the 2008 Beijing games.

More incredible still, 11 of Phelps’ 18 Olympic golds have come in individual events, with two of his four non-gold medals having been as part of relays.

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While also more than capable in the backstroke, it is Phelps’ prowess in both the freestyle and butterfly that have made him the most decorated Olympic champion ever. After a brief retirement in 2014, Phelps opted to give it one more go in Rio.

Can Phelps extend his seemingly unbeatable medal count record with some more top-three finishes in Brazil? Can he get to 25? Thirty? We can’t wait to find out.