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Today in History: Michael Phelps sets record with eighth gold medal

8/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On August 17, 2008, Michael Phelps achieved a historic milestone by winning his eighth gold medal at the Beijing Summer Olympics. This victory set a new record for the most gold medals won by an athlete in a single Olympic Games, surpassing Mark Spitz's previous record of seven golds in 1972. Phelps's remarkable feat solidified his status as the most decorated Olympian in history.

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Story summary

On August 17, 2008, Michael Phelps achieved a historic milestone by winning his eighth gold medal at the Beijing Summer Olympics. This victory set a new record for the most gold medals won by an athlete in a single Olympic Games, surpassing Mark Spitz's previous record of seven golds in 1972. Phelps's remarkable feat solidified his status as the most decorated Olympian in history.