I finished my career the way I wanted to

I finished my career the way I wanted to

Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, finished his career the way he wanted to - on top. Throughout his swimming career, Phelps set numerous records and won a total of 23 gold medals, 3 silver medals, and 2 bronze medals. His dominance in the pool was unparalleled, and he solidified his legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all time.

Phelps first burst onto the scene at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, where he became the youngest male swimmer to make the U.S. Olympic team in over 60 years. Despite not winning a medal in Sydney, Phelps showed the world that he was a force to be reckoned with. Over the next three Olympic Games, Phelps would go on to dominate the competition, breaking records and setting new standards for excellence in the sport of swimming.

At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Phelps announced that it would be his last Games. He had already achieved everything he had set out to accomplish in his career, but he wanted to finish on a high note. And that he did. Phelps won five gold medals and one silver in Rio, bringing his total Olympic medal count to an unprecedented 28. He became the most decorated Olympian of all time, surpassing the previous record held by Soviet gymnast Larisa Latynina.

Phelps' final race, the 4x100m medley relay, was a fitting end to his illustrious career. He swam the butterfly leg and helped lead Team USA to victory, securing his 23rd gold medal. As he stood on the podium, tears streaming down his face, Phelps knew that he had accomplished everything he had set out to do. He had finished his career the way he wanted to - as the greatest swimmer of all time.

Phelps' dedication, hard work, and unwavering determination are an inspiration to athletes around the world. He showed that with talent, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, anything is possible. Phelps will forever be remembered as a legend in the world of sports, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes to strive for greatness.