#18 and #19 to tie and break Olympic medal record …
Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps created a new chapter in the record books Tuesday when he won his 19th medal, making him the most decorated athlete in the history of the games.
The greatest swimmer of all time got some help from a trio of U.S. teammates who put Phelps over the top in the 4x200M Freestyle Relay. They set him up with a huge lead when he hit the pool for the final leg of the race. Afterward the 27-year-old from Baltimore reaped high praise on Ryan Lochte, Dwyer Conor, and Ricky Berens for their efforts.
Twitter fans showered Phelps with congratulatory messages. One noteworthy shout-out came from President Barack Obama:
Phelps responded, “Thank you Mr. President!! It’s an honor representing the #USA!! The best country in the world!!”
Next up is the Men’s 200M Individual Medley. Ryan Lochte and Phelps qualified Wednesday morning and will race again in the semifinals later today for a chance to represent Team USA in the finals Thursday.
USA! USA! USA!
Photos: Twitter-Michael Phelps