Sports Illustrated is known for its photography, journalism and iconic covers. This week, the showcase of Michael Phelps did not disappoint.
On Tuesday, the latest edition of Sports Illustrated came out, and Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps graced the cover with 23 of his best friends. The magazine will hit newsstands on Thursday, Dec. 22. Phelps, who holds the all-time Olympic record of 23 gold medals, is called the “Greatest Olympian of All Time” on the cover, a moniker he richly deserves.
The Maryland native won a grand total of 28 medals, also a record that may never be touched. Phelps was beyond dominant throughout his career, and in the coverstory he details why he’s finished competing despite the talent to continue on. Over the years, Phelps has been on the cover a multitude of times, ranging from days of his hype to his accomplishments.
Credit: Sports Illustrated
The piece by Tim Layden outlines the future for Phelps, which includes raising a family alongside his wife, Nicole. Into his early 30s, Phelps is focused on expanding his business ventures, highlighted with his MP swimwear, a line that could explode in the coming years.
Layden does a fantastic job covering the Olympic legend from all angles. Along with the cover work and the video placed on SI.com, it makes for one fo the best journalistic pieces of 2016, just in time for the holiday season.
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