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Greatest American Olympians of All Time
Jim Thorpe or Michael Phelps

Pick Your Favorite

JIM THORPE

VS

MICHAEL PHELPS
0%

Your GOAT List

Why This Battle Matters

What happens when a vintage titan meets a modern legend? Jim Thorpe, the all-around icon, versus Michael Phelps, the titan of the pool, encapsulates more than just a battle of eras—it's a clash of seemingly limitless versatility against peak specialization. Thorpe's early 20th-century heroics in multiple sports set the template for the all-around athlete, while Phelps's 21st-century dominance in swimming redefined what it means to master a discipline. This matchup is about who shaped the Olympic spirit more profoundly. It's a question of breadth versus depth, challenging fans: What defines the ultimate Olympian greatness to you?

🔥 Fan Takes

lol RIP to those who think old school can beat modern beasts 😂 Phelps for the win, easy.
IDK guys, there's something epic about classic heroes. Thorpe in leather shoes? Legend stuff.
Phelps is the GOAT, don't @ me. More medals, more WOW.

How Fans Are Voting

In this battle:

Fans currently prefer Michael Phelps over Jim Thorpe when it comes to the greatest American Olympians of all time. In head-to-head matchups, fans pick Michael Phelps 65.5% of the time over Jim Thorpe.

Across all battles:

Michael Phelps win rate: 80.3%

Jim Thorpe win rate: 59.3%

Fan FAQs

Why is this matchup such a big debate?

The debate heats up because it's a classic clash of eras and disciplines. Phelps, with his unmatched swimming prowess, represents modern Olympic dominance. In contrast, Thorpe brings a legendary, almost mythical status from the early 20th century, captivating fans who value historical impact.

What's made Jim Thorpe so beloved among fans?

Fans love Jim Thorpe for his sheer versatility and raw athleticism. Competing in multiple sports, including winning Olympic gold in both the pentathlon and decathlon, he symbolizes the spirit of a true all-around athlete.

Why is Michael Phelps leading the votes against Jim Thorpe in the Greatest American Olympians of All Time league?

Michael Phelps often leads because of his record-breaking 23 Olympic gold medals. Fans admire his relentless dedication and his ability to dominate swimming events across four Olympic Games, which really resonates with a lot of sports enthusiasts.