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Usain Bolt vs Michael Phelps- the Greatest Olympian of All Time? Bolt Has His Say

Published 12/21/2021, 1:09 PM EST

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In terms of the Olympics, two athletes rose above most of them. One is the fastest man alive while the other is the best swimmer the world has seen. Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps showcased their talents for a long time at the grandest stage of them all. Bolt won eight gold medals as his counterpart swam his way to 23 gold medals. Thus, the debate on who is the greatest Olympian still exists.

Hence, in a recent interview with Hindustan Times, the interviewer asked a question regarding the greatest Olympian of all time. His answer speaks volumes about his character.

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Usain Bolt: The Legend

When asked who he thought was the better Olympian, he answered his name, with no doubts in his mind. Making a case for both of them is a tough job. Winning two consecutive Olympic gold medals is impressive enough. But, winning three in three, takes him up to legendary status. Likewise, he won the 200-meters competition three times, while showing his dominance for three long years. He is the current world record holder of the 100-meters competition by setting a time of 9.58, as well as, the 200-meters competition with 19.19.

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Although he won his ninth medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics for the 4×100 relay competition, his teammate tested positive for a doping test. Other than that, all those races showcased what Bolt was all about. A true sprinter who worked hard on his craft to become the best in the world. However, if he is the greatest is something to be thought about because his rival’s medal tally may not be matched by anyone.

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Is Michael Phelps the greatest Olympian of all time?

In terms of swimming competitions, Michael Phelps is up there with the best. The legendary aqua gladiator is the GOAT of swimming with his 28 Olympic medals; including 23 gold medals. Even many countries in the world do not have a medal tally like his. That’s the dominance showcased inside the swimming pool. Swimming his way past competitors, Phelps’ signature 400-meter individual medley event is incredible to watch as his well-chiseled physique helped him a lot.

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Thus, the debates continue to determine the greatest Olympian of all time. However, Bolt in his mind thinks that he is as both these superstars have a case for themselves. What do you think?

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Written by:

Jacob Gijy

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Jacob Gijy is a US Sports and NBA writer at EssentiallySports. Gijy finished his Masters in Counselling Psychology and worked in a hospital for 2 years before his passion for sports compelled him to find his way to sports journalism. A fan of the great Tim Duncan, he is always ready to pick up a debate with anyone who does not offer the center the respect he deserves.
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