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London 2012: With 20 medals, Phelps is greatest ever Olympian

Aug 3, 2012   (5 images)

Michael Phelps added to his medal collection with his first individual gold of the London Games, and handed Ryan Lochte a double disappointment on his rival’s final night in the pool. Phelps set the tone right from the start Thursday to become the first male swimmer to win the same individual event at three straight Olympics, capturing the 200-meter individual medley for his 20th career medal — and 16th gold. He touched in 1 minute, 54.27 seconds, just off his winning time in Beijing, but still good enough for gold. Images from Phelps' magnificent victory.

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Gold medallist Michael Phelps of the United States reacts whilst waiting the receive hsi medal alongside Silver medallist Ryan Lochte of the United States on the podium during the medal ceremony for the Men’s 200m Individual Medley final.  Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

 

Michael Phelps of the United States competes in the Men’s 200m Individual Medley final. Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

 

Michael Phelps (R) of the United States wins the gold as Ryan Lochte (L) of the United States wins silver the Men’s 200m Individual Medley final. Ian Walton/Getty Images

 

Michael Phelps of the United States reacts after winning gold in the Men’s 200m Individual Medley final. Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

 

United States’ Michael Phelps, right, and teammate Ryan Lochte smile as they leave the pool after Phelps’ gold medal win and Lochte’s silver medal win in the men’s 200-meter individual medley swimming final at the Aquatics Centre. Daniel Ochoa De Olza/AP