Mark Spitz

Biography

Mark Spitz set the standard by which all Olympic greatness was measured for 36 years. His seven gold medals at the 1972 Munich Games - every single one won in world-record time - seemed like an impossible feat until Michael Phelps came along. With his famous mustache and effortless speed, Spitz dominated the pool like no one before him. He retired at just 22, walking away at the peak of his powers, leaving the world to wonder what more he might have achieved. His 35 world records and nine Olympic golds established a benchmark that pushed the sport forward for decades.

Career Highlights

• 9 Olympic gold medals
• 7 golds in one Olympics (1972)
• All 7 won with world records
• 35 world records
• Retired at just 22

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