Professional swimmer Mark Spitz, eleven-time Olympic medal winner, was selected by the International Olympic Committee as one of the top five athletes of the century.
After winning two Gold medals in the 1968 Olympics in relay events, and Silver and Bronze medals in his individual events, Mark knew he had to do more to prove he was the greatest swimmer in the world. He returned in 1972 to win 7 Gold medals at the 1972 Munich Olympics, setting a world record of the most medals in a single Olympic games. He held his record for 36 years before it was beaten by Michael Phelps in 2008.
Mark is also one of the most decorated Olympians outside the Olympics. He was voted Athlete of the Century in water sports and one of the six greatest Olympians ever by Sports Illustrated. From 1965 to 1972, he set 33 world records and was named World Swimmer of the Year three times.
Mark Spitz retired following his astounding success at the 1972 Olympics and went on to a career as a financial advisor and motivational speaker. Although he is no longer sporting his famous mustache, he remains one of the most recognizable athletes in the world.
