Ultimate Olympian Michael Phelps Ends Career With 18th Gold, Wins 22 In All (Video)

Michael Phelps ended his record-breaking career the only way he knows how, by winning another Olympic gold medal. The swimmer won his 18th gold in the men's medley relay at the London Games. It was his last competitive race. The 27-year-old now retires as the most decorated Olympian of all time.

Phelps has notched up a total of an impressive 22 Olympic medals during a record-breaking career.

Fans say he will not be easily forgotten.

After collecting his final medal, Phelps was awarded a special trophy recognizing him as the most successful Olympian in history.

The 27-year-old said he wanted to keep in shape after piling on the pounds when he took a short break after Beijing but was not going near a pool again, except to watch the world championships and Olympics.