On July 31, 2012, Michael Phelps cemented his status as the GOAT. By anchoring the 4x200m relay to gold in London, he secured his 19th career medal, smashing a 48-year-old record held by Larisa Latynina.

Total medals: 28 Gold standard: 23 Unrivaled legacy: Still the most decorated Olympian ever. Phelps remains the ultimate titan of modern aquatic sports.

Total medals: 28 Gold standard: 23 Unrivaled legacy: Still the most decorated Olympian ever. Phelps remains the ultimate titan of modern aquatic sports.