Phelps wins 8th gold and celebrity status

En route to his 8th gold medal, Michael Phelps captured the hearts of Americans and became the captivating story of these Olympics. When the Olympics started, it seemed as if the USA basketball team’s quest to regain Olympic gold would be the top story for America, but that quickly faded away as Phelps started his quest for eight gold medals. Now that Phelps is done, some of that attention may shift towards the basketball now. But after these Olympics, Phelps record setting eight gold medals will be the story remembered. Everyone loves him, even the media, shown by the fact that you cannot find one negative word written about him. Not everyone thought he could do it, myself included, but everyone wanted him too, except Mark Spitz. Phelps has stated he does not want such a stressful schedule of races in the 2012 Olympics, but I wonder if his competitive spirit and wallet may want to try it again. He will be loaded with endorsements immediately after these Olympics, and he may be tempted in four years at what could be his last shot at a huge payday.

He put his stamp on these Olympics, and after it is over, his races should should be one of the top draws from the games. London will want him in 2012 so people will watch swimming again. USA will want him to compete in as many events as possible in 2012 as shown by a bonus of $670,000 from USA Swimming and the U.S. Olympic Committee for his eight gold medals. Phelps’ interest of becoming a star will emerge soon depending on if he shows up on talk shows and Saturday Night Live. As of right now, his sponsors include at least Speedo, Omega (watches), Visa, Power Bar, and AT&T. When the dust settles, he should have a few more. His agent probably will spend the rest of the Olympics talking and negotiating with potential sponsors. Now Michael Phelps and his agent will determine how famous he really wants to be.