BEIJING, Aug 17: One of the most amazing 24-hour periods in sports history was capped on Sunday at the Water Cube here when Michael Phelps stood on top of the Olympic medal podium for the eighth time.

The American swimmer became the first person to win eight gold medals at a single games by teaming with three others to win the 4x100 medley relay.

“Everything was accomplished,” said Phelps, who tried to win eight four years ago in Athens but went home with six. “I will have the medals forever.” —AP