Record-breaking Michael Phelps of the US has become the first swimmer to win four successive Olympic gold medals in one event by beating Ryan Lochte in the 200m individual medley. Such long-running duels are rare in the quadrennial games. If from the overhead TV camera, swimming seems to be all arms, that’s a mirage; it’s mostly the legs.
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Lochte also noted that he “didn’t buy it” that Phelps was really retiring, telling CBS’s Ben Tracy that Phelps would “be back for more”.
Phelps is already in possession of his 20 and 21 Gold medals.
Lochte turned 32 last week and is non-committal about whether Rio is his last Olympics. The last time someone other than Phelps won the men’s 200m IM at an Olympics, he was 15 years old.
For both, there’s a great deal on the line. Phelps has now won 26 total medals in his career, 22 gold.
Who but Michael Phelps could possibly appreciate the greatness – and it is greatness – of Ryan Lochte, and how the two of them have made each other better?
Phelps will be seeking his fourth straight 200 IM title at the Olympics and his 22nd gold medal overall.
Whether you want to watch Phelps and Lochte go for gold or want to catch something else, NBC Sports will have you covered with a live stream of it all. As peers, friends, rivals, and teammates, Phelps and Lochte have been side-by-side for United States of America swimming for years. Phelps finished first, while Lochte finished second. He’s clearly been dominant in Rio as he’s only added to his collection of gold medals. However, following the backstroke section of the race, the most decorated Olympian was sitting in third behind Lochte and Pereira.
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Both secured their latest gold medals on August 9 in the USA team’s victory in the 800m free relay. They swam as teammates in that race, and then yesterday faced off again as competitors in the semifinal of the 200m IM. When asked about Phelps’ future, Lochte didn’t mince words. That’s why he brings out the best in me.
