Top five USA athletes with most medals won at Summer Olympics

Published at :August 18, 2024 at 11:26 PM

Modified at :August 18, 2024 at 11:26 PM

Swimming has been a goldmine for the USA.

The Olympics have long been a stage for extraordinary athletic achievements and the United States has consistently been a powerhouse in summer sports. Over the years, American athletes have not only broken records but also captured the hearts of millions worldwide with their incredible performances. Swimming, in particular, has been a goldmine for Team USA, producing some of the most decorated Olympians in history.

As we look at the top five most decorated USA athletes in Summer Olympics history, we see a story of athletes that have inspired generations of athletes and fans alike.

Top five USA athletes with most medals at Summer Olympics:

5. Natalie Coughlin (Swimming) – 12 medals

Natalie Coughlin is one of the best swimmers to compete for Team USA. She won her 12 medals over three Olympic Games (2004, 2008, 2012). Coughlin’s Olympic journey began at Athens 2004, where she won five medals, including two gold.

Her most impressive showing was at Beijing 2008, where she became the first US woman to win six medals at a single Olympics. Coughlin also set world records in the 100-meter backstroke multiple times, breaking the one-minute barrier in 2002.

Also read: Five USA athletes for whom Paris 2024 would be last Olympics

4. Ryan Lochte (Swimming) – 12 medals

Ryan Lochte is one of the most successful swimmers in Olympic history. He has won 12 medals in total, including six gold medals. Lochte’s Olympic career spanned four Games, from 2004 to 2016.

He often competed in the shadow of his teammate Michael Phelps, but established himself as a formidable athlete in his own right. Lochte held several world records and was known for his versatility, excelling in multiple swimming styles.

3. Jenny Thompson (Swimming) – 12 medals

Jenny Thompson is the most decorated American female in Olympic history. She won 12 medals across four Olympic Games from 1992 to 2004. Her medal haul includes eight gold, three silver and one bronze. Thompson’s Olympic journey had its ups and downs.

After struggling at the 1996 US Olympic Trials, she bounced back to win three gold medals in relay events at the Atlanta Games. Thompson’s determination saw her continue to succeed well into her 30s, winning two silver medals at her final Olympics in Athens 2004.

2. Katie Ledecky (Swimming)-14 medals

Katie Ledecky is a highly successful American swimmer. She has won 9 Olympic gold medals and a total of 14 Olympic medals, more than any other American woman in history. Ledecky has also earned 21 world championship gold medals, the most for any female swimmer. She currently holds world records in the 800m and 1500m freestyle events. Ledecky’s Olympic achievements stretch across several Games, making her one of the top swimmers in the world.

1. Michael Phelps (Swimming) – 28 medals

Michael Phelps stands alone at the top as the most decorated Olympian in history, not just for the USA, but worldwide. Phelps won an astounding 28 medals over five Olympic Games, including a record 23 gold medals.

His most remarkable achievement came at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he won eight gold medals in a single Games, breaking Mark Spitz’s record of seven.

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