An era of unprecedented sporting domination came to an end at the London Olympics today, with a stunning victory for Michael Phelps in his last competitive race. Swimming the butterfly leg of the 4X100 medley relay, Phelps, 27, displayed his characteristic power to close down the leading Japanese team and claim a record 18th gold medal and pull clear as the most successful Olympian of all time. Cheered on by an appreciative crowd at the London Olympic Park Acquatic Centre, the U.S team romped home and Phelps punched the sky with delight as he pulled down the curtain on his stunning career competing in the pool.
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Michael Phelps takes gold in the 4x100m medley relay to win his 18th Olympic title and 22nd medal overall
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Receives a special trophy in a separate ceremony recognising him as the greatest Olympian of all time
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Will now retire from swimming
@placeholder era to end with anything less than a performance that puts him