Now there is no doubt. Michael Phelps is the greatest swimmer in history.
Phelps’ achievements so far this week at the world swimming championships in Australia, when added to his previous record, separate him from all the sport’s legends: Ian Thorpe, Mark Spitz, Alexander Popov, Johnny Weissmuller.
Tuesday, Phelps broke Thorpe’s world record in the 200-meter freestyle, a record some thought would stand 10 more years. It was Phelps’ first world record in an individual freestyle race.
Wednesday, Phelps broke the world record in the 200 butterfly for the sixth time–the latest by a greater amount, 1.71 seconds, than anyone in the last 48 years. He has the eight fastest times in the event.
“I shocked myself,” Phelps said.
At just 21, with at least one more Olympics in his sights, Phelps has left the swimming world in a state of shock and awe.
He has set world records 18 times in five different individual events.
He won eight medals, six gold, at the 2004 Olympics, setting a world record.
He won six medals, four gold, at the 2003 world championships, setting five world records in four different individual events.
He won six medals, five gold, at the 2005 worlds.
He has won three medals, all gold, at these 2007 worlds, with three individual events and two relays to go.
He has done it all–over and over and over again.
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phersh@tribune.com
