“It’s a Little Harder”- Veteran American Track Coach Compares Michael Phelps’ Swimming Achievements to Usain Bolt’s Track and Field Glory

Michael Phelps and Usain Bolt are legends of their respective sport. Both have amassed great names and titles throughout their long careers, respectively. Earning a great place in the sporting world, both retired after competing in 2016’s Rio Olympics. Phelps won five gold medals and one silver, whereas Bolt bagged three gold medals. Undoubtedly, a comparison between the two is not the easiest thing to do. However, veteran track coach John Smith did attempt to do it.

37-year-old Michael Phelps is one of the greatest Olympians to exist. He holds 28 Olympic medals, out of which 23 are gold. On the other hand, Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt holds the world record in the 100 meters, 200 meters, and 4 × 100 meters relay. With a total of 23 medals, he has eight gold medals.

John Smith comparing Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps

Phelps and Bolt belong to two different fields that are tough to compare. Moreover, comparing them strength-wise is also not simple to pinpoint.

People in this field, near or around them, may be able to denote who is better. In one such instance, John Smith rationally judged the comparison made between them in 2016. He told NY Times in an interview;

“It’s hard to compare water and land,” He continued by saying; “But my view is for an athlete when you are dealing with gravity, it’s a little harder. When you are dealing with buoyancy, it’s a little easier.”

From an overall perspective, one must analyze the different spheres related to their career. Firstly, running long breathless miles can be considered tiresome when compared to taking leaps in water.

Secondly, Phelps has always been greater in terms of claiming medals than Bolt. However, the sprinter has been more appealing to the fans with his attitude.

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Bolt is seen as fun and lively with the fans always. He is considered highly charismatic. Contrarily, Phelps connected with people more when he opened up on mental health issues. Phelps might have missed out on a few opportunities, but Bolt has never lost since the Olympics in 2008.

What are Michael Phelps and Usain Bolt’s greatest wins?

Amidst winning several accolades, they both have their career’s biggest wins. Bolt is the only athlete to win 100 m and 200 m titles at three consecutive Olympics (2008, 2012, and 2016). Phelps’s most memorable win was the 2008 Olympic Games’ 400 m Individual Medley, which he completed within 4:03:84.

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It is debatable to determine who is better between Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps. The world might never witness the two legends in the upcoming games. Hence, we must embrace their legacies.