Michael Phelps has ended an unprecedented career by winning yet another Olympic medal.<br/> <br />The swimmer won his 18th gold in the men's medley relay at the London Games.<br/> <br />It was his last competitive race. The 27-year-old now retires as the most decorated Olympian of all time.<br/> <br />SOUNDBITE: 18-TIMES OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALLIST, MICHAEL PHELPS, SAYING (English):<br/> <br />"As soon as I stepped up on to the podium I could feel the tears start coming, and I said to Nathan 'uh oh here they come, this could be pretty brutal up here', and they just started coming, and I tried to fight it and I just decided to let it go. Whatever happened, happened and just take in these last moments of my swimming career."<br/> <br />Phelps has notched up a total of 22 Olympic medals during a record-breaking career.<br/> <br />Fans say he will not be easily forgotten.<br/> <br />SOUNDBITE: ERIN, TEAM USA SUPPORTER FROM CALIFORNIA, SAYING (English):<br/> <br />"I am going to miss him. He's a trademark of America now! I love him."<br/> <br />SOUNDBITE: JAMES SHIELDS, FROM MARYLAND, SAYING (English):<br/> <br />"There's no way Michael Phelps can be replaced. Never. He's the best ever."<br/> <br />After collecting his final medal, Phelps was awarded a special trophy recognising him as the most successful Olympian in history.<br/> <br />Sarah Charlton, Reuters.
