Four years ago after the 2012 Olympics, Michael Phelps announced he was retiring. in 2016 he has announced that he is back by winning three more gold medals, for the 4 by 100 relay, the 200 meter butterfly, and 4 by 200 relay. Phelps must be considered to be the greatest swimmer in the history of the sport after winning a total of 21 gold medals and 25 overall. At 31 years old, Phelps is the only swimmer to ever compete in 5 Olympic games. This coming from a man who said he lost his passion for the sport after the last Olympics in London. Phelps told Reuters, ""I tried to bite off more than I could handle in 2012, but I want to be here now." That is evident in his inspirational performance so far. Phelps will be competing for gold in the 100 meter butterfly on Thursday night.