Phelps puts another Olympics first in his legacy, Gabby Douglas takes gold - CNN

Phelps puts another Olympics first in his legacy, Gabby Douglas takes gold

By Laura Smith-Spark and Steve Almasy, CNN

Updated 0130 GMT (0930 HKT) August 3, 2012

The U.S. men's basketball team celebrates winning the gold medal after defeating Spain on the final day of the London 2012 Olympics on Sunday, August 12.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – The U.S. men's basketball team celebrates winning the gold medal after defeating Spain on the final day of the London 2012 Olympics on Sunday, August 12.
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With hands over their hearts, the U.S. team listens as "The Star Spangled Banner" is played after the team was awarded their gold medals.
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Olympics: American gold medals – With hands over their hearts, the U.S. team listens as "The Star Spangled Banner" is played after the team was awarded their gold medals.
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Kevin Durant, center, is triumphant at the end of the gold medal match against Spain on Sunday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Kevin Durant, center, is triumphant at the end of the gold medal match against Spain on Sunday.
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LeBron James goes up for a shot as Serge Ibaka of Spain attempts to block.
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Olympics: American gold medals – LeBron James goes up for a shot as Serge Ibaka of Spain attempts to block.
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Pau Gasol of Spain drives past Kevin Love of the United States.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Pau Gasol of Spain drives past Kevin Love of the United States.
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Kobe Bryant of the United States shoots a three-point shot over Juan-Carlos Navarro of Spain.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Kobe Bryant of the United States shoots a three-point shot over Juan-Carlos Navarro of Spain.
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With victory in sight, U.S. players players come off the bench near the game's end as Marc Gasol of Spain walks off.
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Olympics: American gold medals – With victory in sight, U.S. players players come off the bench near the game's end as Marc Gasol of Spain walks off.
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U.S. wrestler Jacob Varner waves the Stars and Stripes after winning the gold medal in the men's 96-kilogram freestyle event on Sunday, August 12.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. wrestler Jacob Varner waves the Stars and Stripes after winning the gold medal in the men's 96-kilogram freestyle event on Sunday, August 12.
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Varner defeated Ukraine's Valerii Andriitsev in the gold medal match Sunday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Varner defeated Ukraine's Valerii Andriitsev in the gold medal match Sunday.
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Varner revels in his victory over Andriitsev.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Varner revels in his victory over Andriitsev.
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Varner defeated George Gogshelidze of Georgia in the semi-final match to move on to the finals.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Varner defeated George Gogshelidze of Georgia in the semi-final match to move on to the finals.
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Standing on the podium after receiving their medals are, left to right, silver medalist Andriitsev, gold medalist Varner and bronze medalists George Gogshelidze of Georgia and Khetag Gazyumov of Azerbaijan.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Standing on the podium after receiving their medals are, left to right, silver medalist Andriitsev, gold medalist Varner and bronze medalists George Gogshelidze of Georgia and Khetag Gazyumov of Azerbaijan.
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American David Boudia performs a dive in the the men's 10-meter platform diving final. He won gold with China's Bo Qiu taking silver and Great Britain's Tom Daley winning bronze.
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Olympics: American gold medals – American David Boudia performs a dive in the the men's 10-meter platform diving final. He won gold with China's Bo Qiu taking silver and Great Britain's Tom Daley winning bronze.
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David Boudia performs in the men's 10-meter platform diving final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – David Boudia performs in the men's 10-meter platform diving final.
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David Boudia reacts to winning gold in the men's 10-meter platform final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – David Boudia reacts to winning gold in the men's 10-meter platform final.
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David Boudia celebrates winning the men's 10-meter platform diving final with teammate Nicholas McCrory, who finished ninth.
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Olympics: American gold medals – David Boudia celebrates winning the men's 10-meter platform diving final with teammate Nicholas McCrory, who finished ninth.
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Seimone Augustus, number 5, and Angel McCaughtry, number 8, celebrate with the rest of the U.S. women's basketball team after defeating France 86-50 to win the gold medal.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Seimone Augustus, number 5, and Angel McCaughtry, number 8, celebrate with the rest of the U.S. women's basketball team after defeating France 86-50 to win the gold medal.
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Members of the U.S. women's basketball team hug after defeating France.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Members of the U.S. women's basketball team hug after defeating France.
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France's Edwige Lawson-Wade, in blue, goes up for a shot against Sue Bird in the second half.
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Olympics: American gold medals – France's Edwige Lawson-Wade, in blue, goes up for a shot against Sue Bird in the second half.
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Maya Moore, in white, leaps for the basket against France's Florence Lepron in the second half.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Maya Moore, in white, leaps for the basket against France's Florence Lepron in the second half.
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DeeDee Trotter, Allyson Felix, Sanya Richards-Ross and Francena McCorory, from left to right, are all smiles after winning gold in the women's 4x400-meter relay final.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – DeeDee Trotter, Allyson Felix, Sanya Richards-Ross and Francena McCorory, from left to right, are all smiles after winning gold in the women's 4x400-meter relay final.
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Sanya Richards-Ross of crosses the finish line to win gold for her team.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Sanya Richards-Ross of crosses the finish line to win gold for her team.
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Sanya Richards-Ross of the United States is triumphant as she crosses the finish line.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Sanya Richards-Ross of the United States is triumphant as she crosses the finish line.
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Allyson Felix receives the relay baton from DeeDee Trotter during the women's 4x400-meter relay final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Allyson Felix receives the relay baton from DeeDee Trotter during the women's 4x400-meter relay final.
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The U.S. women's 4x100-meter relay team -- from left, Carmelita Jeter, Bianca Knight, Tianna Madison and Allyson Felix -- set a new world record in the final.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – The U.S. women's 4x100-meter relay team -- from left, Carmelita Jeter, Bianca Knight, Tianna Madison and Allyson Felix -- set a new world record in the final.
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The U.S. women's 4x100-meter relay team wave the flag to celebrate their world record and gold medal winning victory.
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Olympics: American gold medals – The U.S. women's 4x100-meter relay team wave the flag to celebrate their world record and gold medal winning victory.
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Carmelita Jeter of the United States celebrates winning gold in the women's 4x100-meter relay.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Carmelita Jeter of the United States celebrates winning gold in the women's 4x100-meter relay.
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U.S. wrestler Jordan Ernest Burroughs celebrates with the national flag after defeating Iran's Sadegh Saeed Goudarzi in the men's freestyle gold medal match.
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Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. wrestler Jordan Ernest Burroughs celebrates with the national flag after defeating Iran's Sadegh Saeed Goudarzi in the men's freestyle gold medal match.
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Burroughs, in blue, grapples with Goudarzi in the gold medal match.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Burroughs, in blue, grapples with Goudarzi in the gold medal match.
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Burroughs, in blue, competes with Goudarzi in the gold medal match.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Burroughs, in blue, competes with Goudarzi in the gold medal match.
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Burroughs is declared the winner after defeating Goudarzi.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Burroughs is declared the winner after defeating Goudarzi.
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From left to right: Silver medalist Sadegh Saeed Goudarzi of Iran, gold medalist Jordan Ernest Burroughs of the U.S. and bronze medalists Soslan Tigiev of Uzbekistan and Denis Tsargush of Russia on the podium of the men's 74-kilogram freestyle.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – From left to right: Silver medalist Sadegh Saeed Goudarzi of Iran, gold medalist Jordan Ernest Burroughs of the U.S. and bronze medalists Soslan Tigiev of Uzbekistan and Denis Tsargush of Russia on the podium of the men's 74-kilogram freestyle.
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United States players celebrate winning the women's water polo gold medal match against Spain on Thursday, August 9, Day 13 of the London Olympics.
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Olympics: American gold medals – United States players celebrate winning the women's water polo gold medal match against Spain on Thursday, August 9, Day 13 of the London Olympics.
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The U.S. team celebrates its gold medal win at the Water Polo Arena in London.
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Olympics: American gold medals – The U.S. team celebrates its gold medal win at the Water Polo Arena in London.
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Maggie Steffens of the United States shoots and scores a goal against Spain in the women's water polo match Thursday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Maggie Steffens of the United States shoots and scores a goal against Spain in the women's water polo match Thursday.
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Forward Abby Wambach is ecstatic after the United States defeated Japan 2-1 in the women's soccer gold medal match on Thursday, August 9, Day 13 of the London Olympics. Wambach missed the 2008 Games due to a broken leg.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Forward Abby Wambach is ecstatic after the United States defeated Japan 2-1 in the women's soccer gold medal match on Thursday, August 9, Day 13 of the London Olympics. Wambach missed the 2008 Games due to a broken leg.
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The United States women's soccer team begins the celebration after defeating Japan, avenging its 2011 World Cup final loss.
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Olympics: American gold medals – The United States women's soccer team begins the celebration after defeating Japan, avenging its 2011 World Cup final loss.
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Midfielder Carli Lloyd of the United States heads in a goal in the first half of the game against Japan. The U.S. women's soccer team took its third straight Olympic gold medal.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Midfielder Carli Lloyd of the United States heads in a goal in the first half of the game against Japan. The U.S. women's soccer team took its third straight Olympic gold medal.
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Forward Alex Morgan of the United States battles for the ball during Thursday's match against Japan.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Forward Alex Morgan of the United States battles for the ball during Thursday's match against Japan.
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Christian Taylor of the United States celebrates after winning gold in the men's triple jump on Thursday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Christian Taylor of the United States celebrates after winning gold in the men's triple jump on Thursday.
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Christian Taylor competes in the men's triple jump final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Christian Taylor competes in the men's triple jump final.
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Christian Taylor lands during the triple jump final on Thursday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Christian Taylor lands during the triple jump final on Thursday.
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Gold medalist Christian Taylor and silver medalist Will Claye, also of the United States, celebrate during the medal ceremony for the men's triple jump. Both athletes attended the University of Florida and are seen doing the "Gator chomp."
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Gold medalist Christian Taylor and silver medalist Will Claye, also of the United States, celebrate during the medal ceremony for the men's triple jump. Both athletes attended the University of Florida and are seen doing the "Gator chomp."
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Claressa Shields, in red, battles Nadezda Torlopova of Russia during the women's middleweight boxing final. Shields defeated Torlopova 19-12 to take the gold, becoming the first U.S. woman to take an Olympic boxing gold. <a href="http://cnnphotos.blogs.cnn.com/2012/07/20/t-rex-the-youngest-female-olympic-boxer/" target="_blank">See more photos of Shields and read her story on CNN's photo blog</a>.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Claressa Shields, in red, battles Nadezda Torlopova of Russia during the women's middleweight boxing final. Shields defeated Torlopova 19-12 to take the gold, becoming the first U.S. woman to take an Olympic boxing gold. See more photos of Shields and read her story on CNN's photo blog.
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Shields trades punches with Torlopova during the final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Shields trades punches with Torlopova during the final.
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Shields celebrates her victory as the referee announces her win.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Shields celebrates her victory as the referee announces her win.
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Shields leaves the ring after defeating Torlopova.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Shields leaves the ring after defeating Torlopova.
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Shields laughs on the podum after receiving her gold medal.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Shields laughs on the podum after receiving her gold medal.
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Allyson Felix of the United States crosses the finish line ahead of Murielle Ahoure of Cote d'Ivoire and Carmelita Jeter of the United States to win the women's 200-meter final on Wednesday.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Allyson Felix of the United States crosses the finish line ahead of Murielle Ahoure of Cote d'Ivoire and Carmelita Jeter of the United States to win the women's 200-meter final on Wednesday.
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Kerri Walsh Jennings of the United States, top, dives for the ball during the women's beach volleyball gold medal match on Day 12 of the London 2012 Olympic Games at the Horse Guards Parade on Wednesday, August 8. She and teammate Misty May-Treanor were playing another duo of Americans: April Ross and Jennifer Kessy.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Kerri Walsh Jennings of the United States, top, dives for the ball during the women's beach volleyball gold medal match on Day 12 of the London 2012 Olympic Games at the Horse Guards Parade on Wednesday, August 8. She and teammate Misty May-Treanor were playing another duo of Americans: April Ross and Jennifer Kessy.
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Kerri Walsh Jennings of the United States, left, competes against countryman April Ross during the women's beach volleyball match on Wednesday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Kerri Walsh Jennings of the United States, left, competes against countryman April Ross during the women's beach volleyball match on Wednesday.
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Kerri Walsh Jennings, left, and Misty May-Treanor of the United States celebrate winning the gold medal.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Kerri Walsh Jennings, left, and Misty May-Treanor of the United States celebrate winning the gold medal.
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Brittney Reese of the United States competes in the women's long jump final on Wednesday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Brittney Reese of the United States competes in the women's long jump final on Wednesday.
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Brittney Reese of the United States competes in the women's long jump final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Brittney Reese of the United States competes in the women's long jump final.
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Brittney Reese of the United States celebrates winning gold in the women's long jump final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Brittney Reese of the United States celebrates winning gold in the women's long jump final.
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Aries Merritt of the United States crosses the finish line ahead of Hansle Parchment of Jamaica to win gold in the men's 110-meter hurdles final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Aries Merritt of the United States crosses the finish line ahead of Hansle Parchment of Jamaica to win gold in the men's 110-meter hurdles final.
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Aries Merritt of the United States crosses the finish line ahead of Jason Richardson of the United States on Wednesday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Aries Merritt of the United States crosses the finish line ahead of Jason Richardson of the United States on Wednesday.
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Aries Merritt of the United States celebrates after winning gold in the men's 110-meter hurdles final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Aries Merritt of the United States celebrates after winning gold in the men's 110-meter hurdles final.
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Allyson Felix of the United States crosses the finish line ahead of Murielle Ahoure of Cote d'Ivoire and Carmelita Jeter of the United States to win the women's 200-meter final.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Allyson Felix of the United States crosses the finish line ahead of Murielle Ahoure of Cote d'Ivoire and Carmelita Jeter of the United States to win the women's 200-meter final.
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Allyson Felix of the United States celebrates after winning gold in the women's 200-meter final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Allyson Felix of the United States celebrates after winning gold in the women's 200-meter final.
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Alexandra Raisman of the United States competes in the women's floor exercise final Tuesday, August 7, at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Alexandra Raisman of the United States competes in the women's floor exercise final Tuesday, August 7, at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
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Gold medalist Alexandra Raisman poses on the podium during the medal ceremony for the women's gymnastics floor exercise final on Tuesday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Gold medalist Alexandra Raisman poses on the podium during the medal ceremony for the women's gymnastics floor exercise final on Tuesday.
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Alexandra Raisman goes airborne during the floor exercise final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Alexandra Raisman goes airborne during the floor exercise final.
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Jennifer Suhr of the United States celebrates winning the gold medal in the women's pole vault final on Monday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Jennifer Suhr of the United States celebrates winning the gold medal in the women's pole vault final on Monday.
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Jennifer Suhr competes in the women's pole vault final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Jennifer Suhr competes in the women's pole vault final.
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Jennifer Suhr shows her emotion after winning gold.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Jennifer Suhr shows her emotion after winning gold.
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Sanya Richards-Ross wins the gold in the women's 400-meter final at the London 2012 Olympics on Sunday, August 5. Richards-Ross earned the 28th gold medal for the United States.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Sanya Richards-Ross wins the gold in the women's 400-meter final at the London 2012 Olympics on Sunday, August 5. Richards-Ross earned the 28th gold medal for the United States.
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From left, silver medalist Christine Ohuruogu of Great Britain, gold medalist Richards-Ross and bronze medalist DeeDee Trotter of the United States show off their medals during Sunday's ceremony at Olympic Stadium in London.
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Olympics: American gold medals – From left, silver medalist Christine Ohuruogu of Great Britain, gold medalist Richards-Ross and bronze medalist DeeDee Trotter of the United States show off their medals during Sunday's ceremony at Olympic Stadium in London.
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From left, Amantle Montsho of Botswana, Richards-Ross, Antonina Krivoshapka of Russia, Trotter and Rosemarie Whyte of Jamaica run the 400-meter final Sunday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – From left, Amantle Montsho of Botswana, Richards-Ross, Antonina Krivoshapka of Russia, Trotter and Rosemarie Whyte of Jamaica run the 400-meter final Sunday.
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Richards-Ross crosses the line to win the gold.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Richards-Ross crosses the line to win the gold.
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Richards-Ross basks in her victory.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Richards-Ross basks in her victory.
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Venus Williams, left, and Serena Williams embrace after winning the women's doubles gold medal match on Sunday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Venus Williams, left, and Serena Williams embrace after winning the women's doubles gold medal match on Sunday.
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Serena Williams, left, and Venus Williams play the Czech Republic's Andrea Hlavackova and Lucie Hradecka at the women's doubles gold medal match.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Serena Williams, left, and Venus Williams play the Czech Republic's Andrea Hlavackova and Lucie Hradecka at the women's doubles gold medal match.
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The Williams sisters talk as they play Hlavackova and Hradecka.
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Olympics: American gold medals – The Williams sisters talk as they play Hlavackova and Hradecka.
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The sisters celebrate after their victory against the Czech players Sunday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – The sisters celebrate after their victory against the Czech players Sunday.
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Left to right: Brendan Hansen, Matthew Grevers, Michael Phelps and Nathan Adrian pose following the medal ceremony for the men's 4x100-meter medley on Saturday, August 4.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Left to right: Brendan Hansen, Matthew Grevers, Michael Phelps and Nathan Adrian pose following the medal ceremony for the men's 4x100-meter medley on Saturday, August 4.
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Michael Phelps competes in the men's 4x100-meter medley relay final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Michael Phelps competes in the men's 4x100-meter medley relay final.
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Clockwise: Matthew Grevers, Brendan Hansen, Michael Phelps and Nathan Adrian react to winning gold in the men's 4x100-meter medley relay.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Clockwise: Matthew Grevers, Brendan Hansen, Michael Phelps and Nathan Adrian react to winning gold in the men's 4x100-meter medley relay.
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Left to right: Gold medalists Missy Franklin, Rebecca Soni, Dana Volmer, and Allison Schmitt pose during the medal ceremony for the women's 4x100-meter medley relay on Saturday, August 4.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Left to right: Gold medalists Missy Franklin, Rebecca Soni, Dana Volmer, and Allison Schmitt pose during the medal ceremony for the women's 4x100-meter medley relay on Saturday, August 4.
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Dana Vollmer competes in the women's 4x100-meter medley relay final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Dana Vollmer competes in the women's 4x100-meter medley relay final.
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Dana Vollmer, left, and Missy Franklin react after winning gold in the women's 4x100-meter medley relay.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Dana Vollmer, left, and Missy Franklin react after winning gold in the women's 4x100-meter medley relay.
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Brothers Mike Bryan, left, and Bob Bryan embrace after defeating France's Michael Llodra and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the men's doubles gold medal tennis match on Saturday, August 4, at Wimbledon.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Brothers Mike Bryan, left, and Bob Bryan embrace after defeating France's Michael Llodra and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the men's doubles gold medal tennis match on Saturday, August 4, at Wimbledon.
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Mike Bryan, left, and Bob Bryan pose on a podium with their gold medals after winning the men's doubles tennis tournament.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Mike Bryan, left, and Bob Bryan pose on a podium with their gold medals after winning the men's doubles tennis tournament.
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Mike Bryan, left, and Bob Bryan celebrate after defeating France's Michael Llodra and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to win gold in the men's doubles event.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Mike Bryan, left, and Bob Bryan celebrate after defeating France's Michael Llodra and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to win gold in the men's doubles event.
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France's Michael Llodra and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga compete against Mike Bryan and Bob Bryan of the United States in the men's doubles final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – France's Michael Llodra and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga compete against Mike Bryan and Bob Bryan of the United States in the men's doubles final.
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Serena Williams reacts after defeating Maria Sharapova of Russia to win the gold medal in women's singles tennis in London, England, on Saturday, August 4.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Serena Williams reacts after defeating Maria Sharapova of Russia to win the gold medal in women's singles tennis in London, England, on Saturday, August 4.
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Williams admires her gold medal during the medal ceremony after defeating Sharapova in the women's singles match.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Williams admires her gold medal during the medal ceremony after defeating Sharapova in the women's singles match.
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Serena Williams hits a return to Russia's Maria Sharapova during the women's singles tennis final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Serena Williams hits a return to Russia's Maria Sharapova during the women's singles tennis final.
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Serena Williams reacts to winning the gold medal in the women's singles tennis event.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Serena Williams reacts to winning the gold medal in the women's singles tennis event.
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Gold medalist Jamie Lynn Gray of the United States celebrates on the podium after winning the 50-meter rifle 3 positions women's final Saturday, August 4.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Gold medalist Jamie Lynn Gray of the United States celebrates on the podium after winning the 50-meter rifle 3 positions women's final Saturday, August 4.
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Gray aims a shot in the 50-meter rifle 3 positions women's qualification at the Royal Artillery Barracks in London.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Gray aims a shot in the 50-meter rifle 3 positions women's qualification at the Royal Artillery Barracks in London.
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Gray adjusts her shooting equipment during the women's 50-meter rifle 3 positions shooting qualification.
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olympics Jamie Lynn Gray 3 – Gray adjusts her shooting equipment during the women's 50-meter rifle 3 positions shooting qualification.
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Fifteen-year-old Katie Ledecky reacts after winning the women's 800-meter freestyle final on Friday, August 3.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Fifteen-year-old Katie Ledecky reacts after winning the women's 800-meter freestyle final on Friday, August 3.
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Left to right: Silver medallist Mireia Belmonte Garcia of Spain, gold medalist Katie Ledecky of the United States and bronze medalist Rebecca Adlington of Great Britain on the podium during the medal ceremony for the women's 800-meter freestyle final on day 7 of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Left to right: Silver medallist Mireia Belmonte Garcia of Spain, gold medalist Katie Ledecky of the United States and bronze medalist Rebecca Adlington of Great Britain on the podium during the medal ceremony for the women's 800-meter freestyle final on day 7 of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
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Left to right: Silver medalists Chad le Clos of South Africa and Evgeny Korotyshkin of Russia and gold medalist Michael Phelps listen to the United States national anthem during the medal ceremony for the men's 100-meter butterfly final on Friday, August 3.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Left to right: Silver medalists Chad le Clos of South Africa and Evgeny Korotyshkin of Russia and gold medalist Michael Phelps listen to the United States national anthem during the medal ceremony for the men's 100-meter butterfly final on Friday, August 3.
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Michael Phelps competes in the men's 100-meter butterfly final.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Michael Phelps competes in the men's 100-meter butterfly final.
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Missy Franklin, left, is congratulated by Elizabeth Beisel after winning gold and breaking the world record in the women's 200-meter backstroke final on Friday.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Missy Franklin, left, is congratulated by Elizabeth Beisel after winning gold and breaking the world record in the women's 200-meter backstroke final on Friday.
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Missy Franklin competes in the women's 200-meter backstroke final. Franklin took gold in the event and American Elizabeth Beisel took bronze.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Missy Franklin competes in the women's 200-meter backstroke final. Franklin took gold in the event and American Elizabeth Beisel took bronze.
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Left to right: Silver medalist Anastasia Zueva of Russia, gold medalist Missy Franklin of the United States and bronze medalist Elizabeth Beisel of the United States on the podium during the medal ceremony for the women's 200-meter backstroke final on Day 7 of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Left to right: Silver medalist Anastasia Zueva of Russia, gold medalist Missy Franklin of the United States and bronze medalist Elizabeth Beisel of the United States on the podium during the medal ceremony for the women's 200-meter backstroke final on Day 7 of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
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Tyler Clary reacts after winning the gold in the men's 200-meter backstroke final in London on Thursday, August 2.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Tyler Clary reacts after winning the gold in the men's 200-meter backstroke final in London on Thursday, August 2.
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Tyler Clary celebrates after winning the gold in the men's 200-meter backstroke final. Clary beat Ryan Lochte with an Olympic-record time of 1:53.41.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Tyler Clary celebrates after winning the gold in the men's 200-meter backstroke final. Clary beat Ryan Lochte with an Olympic-record time of 1:53.41.
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Left to right: Ryan Lochte, Tyler Clary and China's Fenglin Zhang compete in the men's 200-meter backstroke final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Left to right: Ryan Lochte, Tyler Clary and China's Fenglin Zhang compete in the men's 200-meter backstroke final.
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U.S. swimmer Michael Phelps on the podium after winning the men's 200-meter individual medley in the London Olympics.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. swimmer Michael Phelps on the podium after winning the men's 200-meter individual medley in the London Olympics.
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Phelps, center, dives next to U.S. swimmer Ryan Lochte, top, and Japan's Kosuke Hagino at the start of the 200-meter individual medley.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Phelps, center, dives next to U.S. swimmer Ryan Lochte, top, and Japan's Kosuke Hagino at the start of the 200-meter individual medley.
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Phelps, who will retire after the Olympics, made history this week when he became the Olympian with the most medals. He earned his 20th in the individual medley event.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Phelps, who will retire after the Olympics, made history this week when he became the Olympian with the most medals. He earned his 20th in the individual medley event.
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Phelps led from the first leg of the butterfly, his specialty, until he touched the wall more than a half-second ahead of teammate Ryan Lochte.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Phelps led from the first leg of the butterfly, his specialty, until he touched the wall more than a half-second ahead of teammate Ryan Lochte.
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Phelps reacts to winning gold in the 200-meter Individual medley.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Phelps reacts to winning gold in the 200-meter Individual medley.
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Phelps bested Lochte, right, on Thursday to win the gold in their second head-to-head race. Over the weekend Lochte took gold in the 400-meter individual while Phelps could only manage fourth.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Phelps bested Lochte, right, on Thursday to win the gold in their second head-to-head race. Over the weekend Lochte took gold in the 400-meter individual while Phelps could only manage fourth.
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U.S. gymnast Gabrielle Douglas celebrates on the podium after winning the gymnastics women's individual all-around final on Thursday.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. gymnast Gabrielle Douglas celebrates on the podium after winning the gymnastics women's individual all-around final on Thursday.
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American Gabrielle Douglas performs in front of the judges during her the individual all-around gymnastics final on Thursday.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – American Gabrielle Douglas performs in front of the judges during her the individual all-around gymnastics final on Thursday.
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Gymnast Gabrielle Douglas performs in the floor exercise at the North Greenwich Arena.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Gymnast Gabrielle Douglas performs in the floor exercise at the North Greenwich Arena.
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Douglas waves to the crowd after winning the gold medal.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Douglas waves to the crowd after winning the gold medal.
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American Kayla Harrison reacts on the podium after winning the gold medal in women's judo on Thursday.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – American Kayla Harrison reacts on the podium after winning the gold medal in women's judo on Thursday.
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American Kayla Harrison, in white, and Gemma Gibbons of Britain compete in women's judo on Thursday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – American Kayla Harrison, in white, and Gemma Gibbons of Britain compete in women's judo on Thursday.
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Kayla Harrison, in white, and Britain's Gemma Gibbons fight for first place.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Kayla Harrison, in white, and Britain's Gemma Gibbons fight for first place.
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United States' Kayla Harrison reacts after winning the match.
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Olympics: American gold medals – United States' Kayla Harrison reacts after winning the match.
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From left, Britain's silver medalist Gemma Gibbons, United States' gold medalist Kayla Harrison, Brazil's bronze medalist Mayra Aguiar, and France's bronze medalist Audrey Tcheumeo, pose on the podium after the women's judo competition.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – From left, Britain's silver medalist Gemma Gibbons, United States' gold medalist Kayla Harrison, Brazil's bronze medalist Mayra Aguiar, and France's bronze medalist Audrey Tcheumeo, pose on the podium after the women's judo competition.
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Members of the U.S. rowing team celebrate with their gold medals during the medal ceremony after the women's eight final at Eton Dorney in Windsor, England.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Members of the U.S. rowing team celebrate with their gold medals during the medal ceremony after the women's eight final at Eton Dorney in Windsor, England.
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The U.S. team poses on their boat after winning their gold medals.
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Olympics: American gold medals – The U.S. team poses on their boat after winning their gold medals.
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Americans Zsuzsanna Francia and Esther Lofgren celebrate first place.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Americans Zsuzsanna Francia and Esther Lofgren celebrate first place.
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Members of the gold medal-winning U.S. team, the silver medal-winning Canadian team and the bronze medal-winning Dutch team line up during the medal ceremony.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Members of the gold medal-winning U.S. team, the silver medal-winning Canadian team and the bronze medal-winning Dutch team line up during the medal ceremony.
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U.S. team hug after receiving their gold medals during the medal ceremony.
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Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. team hug after receiving their gold medals during the medal ceremony.
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Wearing their gold medals, members of the U.S. team celebrate in their boat.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Wearing their gold medals, members of the U.S. team celebrate in their boat.
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The U.S. team throws their cox Mary Whipple into the water after their big win.
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Olympics: American gold medals – The U.S. team throws their cox Mary Whipple into the water after their big win.
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A member of the U.S. team wears an Uncle Sam getup after she and her teammates won the gold medal in the women's eight rowing final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – A member of the U.S. team wears an Uncle Sam getup after she and her teammates won the gold medal in the women's eight rowing final.
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U.S. gold medalists, from left, Dana Vollmer, Allison Schmitt, Shannon Vreeland and Missy Franklin celebrate on the podium after winning the women's 4x200-meter freestyle relay on Wednesday.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. gold medalists, from left, Dana Vollmer, Allison Schmitt, Shannon Vreeland and Missy Franklin celebrate on the podium after winning the women's 4x200-meter freestyle relay on Wednesday.
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Dana Vollmer competes in the women's 4x200-meter freestyle relay.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Dana Vollmer competes in the women's 4x200-meter freestyle relay.
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From left, Shannon Vreeland, Dana Vollmer and Missy Franklin watch teammate Allison Schmitt finish first to win the relay.
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Olympics: American gold medals – From left, Shannon Vreeland, Dana Vollmer and Missy Franklin watch teammate Allison Schmitt finish first to win the relay.
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The U.S. team celebrates after winning the 4x200-meter freestyle relay.
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Olympics: American gold medals – The U.S. team celebrates after winning the 4x200-meter freestyle relay.
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The U.S. women's swim team reacts to their victory over Australia.
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Olympics: American gold medals – The U.S. women's swim team reacts to their victory over Australia.
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At left, Shannon Vreeland, Missy Franklin, Allison Schmitt and Dana Vollmer of the United States celebrate next to the Australian team.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – At left, Shannon Vreeland, Missy Franklin, Allison Schmitt and Dana Vollmer of the United States celebrate next to the Australian team.
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Missy Franklin, Dana Vollmer, Shannon Vreeland and Allison Schmitt celebrate on the podium after taking the gold in the women's 4x200-meter freestyle relay on Wedesnday. It was the United States' eighth gold in swimming.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Missy Franklin, Dana Vollmer, Shannon Vreeland and Allison Schmitt celebrate on the podium after taking the gold in the women's 4x200-meter freestyle relay on Wedesnday. It was the United States' eighth gold in swimming.
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U.S. gold medalist Nathan Adrian poses on the podium after the men's 100-meter freestyle swimming event on Wednesday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. gold medalist Nathan Adrian poses on the podium after the men's 100-meter freestyle swimming event on Wednesday.
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American swimmer Nathan Adrian celebrates after winning the men's 100-meter freestyle final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – American swimmer Nathan Adrian celebrates after winning the men's 100-meter freestyle final.
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From left, silver medalist James Magnussen of Australia, gold medalist Nathan Adrian of the United States and Brent Hayden of Canada stand with their medals on the podium during the medal cermony for the men's 100-meter freestyle final.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – From left, silver medalist James Magnussen of Australia, gold medalist Nathan Adrian of the United States and Brent Hayden of Canada stand with their medals on the podium during the medal cermony for the men's 100-meter freestyle final.
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U.S. gold medalist Nathan Adrian celebrates after his win.
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Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. gold medalist Nathan Adrian celebrates after his win.
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U.S. swimmer Nathan Adrian reacts after winning the men's 100-meter freestyle.
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Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. swimmer Nathan Adrian reacts after winning the men's 100-meter freestyle.
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American swimmer Nathan Adrian raises his hands in triumph.
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Olympics: American gold medals – American swimmer Nathan Adrian raises his hands in triumph.
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Cyclist Kristin Armstrong celebrates winning a gold medal in the Olympic cycling time trial on Wednesday. She also won the medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Cyclist Kristin Armstrong celebrates winning a gold medal in the Olympic cycling time trial on Wednesday. She also won the medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
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Armstrong pushes ahead Wednesday during the women's individual time trial road cycling event.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Armstrong pushes ahead Wednesday during the women's individual time trial road cycling event.
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Armstrong celebrates the gold with her son, Lucas, during the medal ceremony.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Armstrong celebrates the gold with her son, Lucas, during the medal ceremony.
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Armstrong is victorious in London.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Armstrong is victorious in London.
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From left, gold medallists Ryan Lochte, Conor Dwyer, Ricky Berens and Michael Phelps pose on the podium during the medal ceremony for the Men's 4x200-meter freestyle relay final on Tuesday.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – From left, gold medallists Ryan Lochte, Conor Dwyer, Ricky Berens and Michael Phelps pose on the podium during the medal ceremony for the Men's 4x200-meter freestyle relay final on Tuesday.
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U.S. swimmers Ryan Lochte, center, Conor Dwyer, left, Ricky Berens, right, and Michael Phelps, in the water, react after their win.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. swimmers Ryan Lochte, center, Conor Dwyer, left, Ricky Berens, right, and Michael Phelps, in the water, react after their win.
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American Michael Phelps competes in the men's 4x200-meter freestyle relay final.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – American Michael Phelps competes in the men's 4x200-meter freestyle relay final.
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Michael Phelps set an Olympic record with his 19th lifetime medal.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Michael Phelps set an Olympic record with his 19th lifetime medal.
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Gold medalist U.S. swimmer Allison Schmitt stands on the podium after the women's 200-meter freestyle final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Gold medalist U.S. swimmer Allison Schmitt stands on the podium after the women's 200-meter freestyle final.
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American swimmer Allison Schmitt celebrates after winning the 200-meter freestyle final.
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Olympics: American gold medals – American swimmer Allison Schmitt celebrates after winning the 200-meter freestyle final.
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Gold medalist Allison Schmitt poses with her medal.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Gold medalist Allison Schmitt poses with her medal.
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Allison Schmitt celebrates in the water after winning the gold.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Allison Schmitt celebrates in the water after winning the gold.
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Allison Schmitt, left, is congratulated by Bronte Barratt of Australia after her win.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Allison Schmitt, left, is congratulated by Bronte Barratt of Australia after her win.
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Gold medalist Allison Schmitt, center, silver medalist Camille Muffat of France, right, and bronze medalist Bronte Barratt of Australia smile on the podium after the women's 200-meter freestyle final on Tuesday.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Gold medalist Allison Schmitt, center, silver medalist Camille Muffat of France, right, and bronze medalist Bronte Barratt of Australia smile on the podium after the women's 200-meter freestyle final on Tuesday.
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From left, gold medalist U.S. team McKayla Maroney, Kyla Ross, Alexandra Raisman, Gabrielle Douglas and Jordyn Wieber celebrate their gold medal in the women's gymnastics team final on Tuesday. They won the United States' seventh gold medal.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – From left, gold medalist U.S. team McKayla Maroney, Kyla Ross, Alexandra Raisman, Gabrielle Douglas and Jordyn Wieber celebrate their gold medal in the women's gymnastics team final on Tuesday. They won the United States' seventh gold medal.
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The gold medal hangs from the Olympian's neck.
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Olympics: American gold medals – The gold medal hangs from the Olympian's neck.
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American Kyla Ross and coach Jenny Zhang hug during the women's gymnastics team final Tuesday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – American Kyla Ross and coach Jenny Zhang hug during the women's gymnastics team final Tuesday.
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U.S. gymnast Gabrielle Douglas performs on the beam during the women's team final of the gymnastics event.
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Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. gymnast Gabrielle Douglas performs on the beam during the women's team final of the gymnastics event.
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U.S. women's gymnastics coach John Geddert celebrates with his team after they won the gold in the team competition Tuesday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. women's gymnastics coach John Geddert celebrates with his team after they won the gold in the team competition Tuesday.
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American Alexandra Raisman competes on the balance beam Tuesday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – American Alexandra Raisman competes on the balance beam Tuesday.
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Vincent Hancock shows off his gold medal in men's skeet shooting Tuesday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Vincent Hancock shows off his gold medal in men's skeet shooting Tuesday.
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Hancock aims during the men's skeet shooting qualification round Tuesday at the Royal Artillery Barracks in London. The U.S. Army sergeant also won a gold medal in the 2008 Bejing Olympics.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Hancock aims during the men's skeet shooting qualification round Tuesday at the Royal Artillery Barracks in London. The U.S. Army sergeant also won a gold medal in the 2008 Bejing Olympics.
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U.S. swimmer Missy Franklin celebrates winning the women's 100-meter backstroke final swimming event at the London 2012 Olympic Games on Monday, July 30.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. swimmer Missy Franklin celebrates winning the women's 100-meter backstroke final swimming event at the London 2012 Olympic Games on Monday, July 30.
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Missy Franklin of the United States wipes a tear from her face as she reacts during the medal ceremony for the women's 100-meter backstroke on Monday.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Missy Franklin of the United States wipes a tear from her face as she reacts during the medal ceremony for the women's 100-meter backstroke on Monday.
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From left, Camille Lacourt of France, Matt Grevers of the United States and Liam Tancock of Great Britain compete the final of the men's 100-meter backstroke on Monday.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – From left, Camille Lacourt of France, Matt Grevers of the United States and Liam Tancock of Great Britain compete the final of the men's 100-meter backstroke on Monday.
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American Matthew Grevers (left) celebrates winning gold with silver medalist and fellow American Nick Thoman at the finish of the men's 100-meter backstroke final swimming on Monday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – American Matthew Grevers (left) celebrates winning gold with silver medalist and fellow American Nick Thoman at the finish of the men's 100-meter backstroke final swimming on Monday.
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From left, silver medalist Emily Seebohm of Australia, gold medalist Missy Franklin of the United States and bronze medalist Aya Terakawa of Japan celebrate with their medals during the medal ceremony for the women's 100-meter backstroke on Monday.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – From left, silver medalist Emily Seebohm of Australia, gold medalist Missy Franklin of the United States and bronze medalist Aya Terakawa of Japan celebrate with their medals during the medal ceremony for the women's 100-meter backstroke on Monday.
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U.S. swimmer Dana Vollmer poses on the podium after winning a gold medal in the women's 100-meter butterfly final at the London Olympics on Sunday, July 29.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – U.S. swimmer Dana Vollmer poses on the podium after winning a gold medal in the women's 100-meter butterfly final at the London Olympics on Sunday, July 29.
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Vollmer set a world record in winning the 100-meter butterfly, becoming the first woman to go under 56 seconds.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Vollmer set a world record in winning the 100-meter butterfly, becoming the first woman to go under 56 seconds.
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Vollmer celebrates after breaking the world record on Sunday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Vollmer celebrates after breaking the world record on Sunday.
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Kim Rhode listens to the U.S. national anthem after winning the gold medal in women's skeet shooting Sunday.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Kim Rhode listens to the U.S. national anthem after winning the gold medal in women's skeet shooting Sunday.
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Rhode celebrates winning the skeet competition at the Royal Artillery Barracks.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Rhode celebrates winning the skeet competition at the Royal Artillery Barracks.
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Ryan Lochte celebrates with his gold medal during the men's 400-meter individual medley medal ceremony on Saturday. He captured the first U.S. gold medal of the Games.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Ryan Lochte celebrates with his gold medal during the men's 400-meter individual medley medal ceremony on Saturday. He captured the first U.S. gold medal of the Games.
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Lochte poses with medal on Saturday. His dental braces bear the U.S. flag.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Lochte poses with medal on Saturday. His dental braces bear the U.S. flag.
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Lochte reacts after winning the men's 400-meter individual medley final. U.S. teammate and competitor Michael Phelps finished fourth.
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Olympics: American gold medals – Lochte reacts after winning the men's 400-meter individual medley final. U.S. teammate and competitor Michael Phelps finished fourth.
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Lochte competes in the men's 400-meter individual medley final. "I know it's my time, and I'm ready."
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – Lochte competes in the men's 400-meter individual medley final. "I know it's my time, and I'm ready."
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The 400-meter individual medley event Lochte won combines four types of strokes.
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Olympics: American gold medals – The 400-meter individual medley event Lochte won combines four types of strokes.
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While Lochte (above) took gold, Brazil's Thiago Pereira secured the silver medal and Japan's Kosuke Hagino won bronze.
Photos: Olympics: American gold medals
Olympics: American gold medals – While Lochte (above) took gold, Brazil's Thiago Pereira secured the silver medal and Japan's Kosuke Hagino won bronze.
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Story highlights

  • Team USA scores record 156 points, wins by 83
  • Phelps adds to legend with history-making win in the 200-meter individual medley
  • Gabby Douglas wins the women's all-around gymnastics gold, but Aly Raisman misses out
  • Britain's cyclists take gold in the men's team sprint final, set another world record
Michael Phelps wasn't done making Olympic history. On Thursday, he became the first man to win the same individual event in three consecutive Olympics with a strong performance in the men's 200-meter individual medley.
Phelps led from the first leg of butterfly, his specialty, until he touched the wall more than half-second ahead of teammate Ryan Lochte, who just a half-hour earlier had taken a bronze medal in the 200-meter backstroke.
"Even though Ryan had that 200 back before, I knew he was going to be tough. I kind of wanted to push the first 100 as much as I could just to kind of see what would happen," Phelps said.
Phelps extends record breaking spree with first individual gold in London
Phelps, who will retire after the Olympics, made history this week when he became the Olympian with the most medals, surpassing Soviet gymnast Larisa Latynina's record of 18. The Baltimore native now has 20 medals: 16 golds, two silvers and two bronzes.
Lochte had won the first head-to-head contest with Phelps in these Games, taking gold in the 400-meter individual Saturday while Phelps could only manage fourth.
LeBron James, left, and Kobe Bryant watch the men's basketball preliminary round match on Thursday, August 2 in London. Check out <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2012/08/01/worldsport/gallery/olympics-day-five/index.html" target="_blank">Day 5 of competition</a> from Wednesday, August 1. The Games ran through August 12.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
LeBron James, left, and Kobe Bryant watch the men's basketball preliminary round match on Thursday, August 2 in London. Check out <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2012/08/01/worldsport/gallery/olympics-day-five/index.html" target="_blank">Day 5 of competition</a> from Wednesday, August 1. The Games ran through August 12.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – LeBron James, left, and Kobe Bryant watch the men's basketball preliminary round match on Thursday, August 2 in London. Check out Day 5 of competition from Wednesday, August 1. The Games ran through August 12.
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Michael Phelps throws his flowers to his sister Hilary Phelps after the medal ceremony in the men's 200-meter individual medley final.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Michael Phelps throws his flowers to his sister Hilary Phelps after the medal ceremony in the men's 200-meter individual medley final.
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Left to right: Italy's Elisa Di Francisca, Arianna Errigo, Ilaria Salvatori and Valentina Vezzali celebrate winning gold during the women's foil final as part of the fencing event.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Left to right: Italy's Elisa Di Francisca, Arianna Errigo, Ilaria Salvatori and Valentina Vezzali celebrate winning gold during the women's foil final as part of the fencing event.
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Great Britain's Zara Dampney, left, and Shauna Mullin celebrate after a point against Doris Schwaiger and Stefanie Schwaiger of Austria during the women's beach volleyball preliminary match.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Great Britain's Zara Dampney, left, and Shauna Mullin celebrate after a point against Doris Schwaiger and Stefanie Schwaiger of Austria during the women's beach volleyball preliminary match.
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The Great Britain hockey team lines up for the national anthem ahead of their preliminary match against Belgium.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – The Great Britain hockey team lines up for the national anthem ahead of their preliminary match against Belgium.
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Shuang Guo of China competes during the women's sprint track cycling qualifying.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Shuang Guo of China competes during the women's sprint track cycling qualifying.
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Iceland's center back Snorri Steinn Gudjonsson jumps to shoot during the men's preliminary group A handball match with Sweden.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Iceland's center back Snorri Steinn Gudjonsson jumps to shoot during the men's preliminary group A handball match with Sweden.
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The Netherlands' Ranomi Kromowidjojo reacts to her gold medal win in the women's 100-meter freestyle final swimming event.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – The Netherlands' Ranomi Kromowidjojo reacts to her gold medal win in the women's 100-meter freestyle final swimming event.
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LeBron James jumps for two in the first half during the men's basketball preliminary round match against Nigeria. The U.S. team beat Nigeria 156-73, breaking the Olympic record for most points scored in a basketball game.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – LeBron James jumps for two in the first half during the men's basketball preliminary round match against Nigeria. The U.S. team beat Nigeria 156-73, breaking the Olympic record for most points scored in a basketball game.
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United States swimmer Elizabeth Beisel competes in the women's 200-meter backstroke semi-finals swimming event.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – United States swimmer Elizabeth Beisel competes in the women's 200-meter backstroke semi-finals swimming event.
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Spain's Victor Sada scores during the men's basketball preliminary round match between Spain and Britain.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Spain's Victor Sada scores during the men's basketball preliminary round match between Spain and Britain.
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Great Britain's Nate Reinking jumps for a layup in the second half of the men's basketball preliminary round match.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Great Britain's Nate Reinking jumps for a layup in the second half of the men's basketball preliminary round match.
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Sweden's center back Dalibor Doder, center, vies with Icelandic players during the men's preliminary group A handball match.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Sweden's center back Dalibor Doder, center, vies with Icelandic players during the men's preliminary group A handball match.
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A general view of the beach volleyball competition at Horse Guards Parade in London.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – A general view of the beach volleyball competition at Horse Guards Parade in London.
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Ella Gunson, left, and Anita Punt, center, of New Zealand challenge Rocio Sanchez Moccia, right, of Argentina during the women's hockey preliminary round match.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Ella Gunson, left, and Anita Punt, center, of New Zealand challenge Rocio Sanchez Moccia, right, of Argentina during the women's hockey preliminary round match.
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The Netherlands' Ranomi Kromowidjojo competes in the women's 100-meter freestyle final swimming event.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – The Netherlands' Ranomi Kromowidjojo competes in the women's 100-meter freestyle final swimming event.
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Michael Phelps swims to win gold in the men's 200-meter individual medley. Phelps won his 20th career Olympic medal and completed a historic third consecutive 200-meter individual medley Olympic victory.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Michael Phelps swims to win gold in the men's 200-meter individual medley. Phelps won his 20th career Olympic medal and completed a historic third consecutive 200-meter individual medley Olympic victory.
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Italy's Vanessa Ferrari competes in the floor exercise in the artistic gymnastics women's individual all-around final.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Italy's Vanessa Ferrari competes in the floor exercise in the artistic gymnastics women's individual all-around final.
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Tunisian center Salah Mejri scores during the men's preliminary round group A basketball match against Argentina.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Tunisian center Salah Mejri scores during the men's preliminary round group A basketball match against Argentina.
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Mizuki Fujii, left, and Reika Kakiiwa, right, of Japan play a shot during their semifinal mixed doubles badminton match against Canada's Michelle Li and Alex Bruce.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Mizuki Fujii, left, and Reika Kakiiwa, right, of Japan play a shot during their semifinal mixed doubles badminton match against Canada's Michelle Li and Alex Bruce.
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Left to right: Italy's Elisa Di Francisca, Arianna Errigo, Valentina Vezzali and Ilaria Salvatori celebrate with their gold medals on the podium of the women's foil final as part of the fencing event.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Left to right: Italy's Elisa Di Francisca, Arianna Errigo, Valentina Vezzali and Ilaria Salvatori celebrate with their gold medals on the podium of the women's foil final as part of the fencing event.
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Tyler Clary celebrates winning gold in the men's 200-meter backstroke final swimming event.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Tyler Clary celebrates winning gold in the men's 200-meter backstroke final swimming event.
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Ryan Lochte competes in the men's 200-meter backstroke final swimming event. Lochte finished with a bronze medal.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Ryan Lochte competes in the men's 200-meter backstroke final swimming event. Lochte finished with a bronze medal.
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Brazilian forward Larry Taylor, left, tries to get past Russian center Timofey Mozgov, right, during the men's preliminary round basketball match.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Brazilian forward Larry Taylor, left, tries to get past Russian center Timofey Mozgov, right, during the men's preliminary round basketball match.
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Great Britain's Rob Parker, center, competes with Tim Hutten, right, of the United States in the men's water polo preliminary match. The U.S. team won 7-13.<br />
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Great Britain's Rob Parker, center, competes with Tim Hutten, right, of the United States in the men's water polo preliminary match. The U.S. team won 7-13.
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Gymnast Gabby Douglas of the United States competes on the balance beam in the women's individual all-around final on Day 6 of the London 2012 Olympics.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Gymnast Gabby Douglas of the United States competes on the balance beam in the women's individual all-around final on Day 6 of the London 2012 Olympics.
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Cullen Jones, left, of the United States and Cesar Cielo of Brazil touch the wall at the finish the men's 50-meter freestyle semifinal.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Cullen Jones, left, of the United States and Cesar Cielo of Brazil touch the wall at the finish the men's 50-meter freestyle semifinal.
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Australia's Becchara Palmer dives for the ball during the women's beach volleyball preliminary match against Brazil.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Australia's Becchara Palmer dives for the ball during the women's beach volleyball preliminary match against Brazil.
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Gabby Douglas of the United States performs the floor exercise in the gymnastics women's individual all-around final.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Gabby Douglas of the United States performs the floor exercise in the gymnastics women's individual all-around final.
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U.S. gymnast Gabby Douglas, right, embraces teammate Alexandra Raisman after winning the gymnastics women's individual all-around final.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – U.S. gymnast Gabby Douglas, right, embraces teammate Alexandra Raisman after winning the gymnastics women's individual all-around final.
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U.S. gymnast Gabby Douglas competes on the balance beam in the women's individual all-around final.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – U.S. gymnast Gabby Douglas competes on the balance beam in the women's individual all-around final.
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Pietro Zucchetti, left, and Gabrio Zandona of Italy compete in the men's 470 sailing in Weymouth, England.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Pietro Zucchetti, left, and Gabrio Zandona of Italy compete in the men's 470 sailing in Weymouth, England.
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Gold medalist Etienne Stott of Great Britain celebrates after the medal ceremony for the men's canoe double slalom final.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Gold medalist Etienne Stott of Great Britain celebrates after the medal ceremony for the men's canoe double slalom final.
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Jaroslav Volf, left, and Ondrej Stepanek of Czech Republic compete during the men's canoe double slalom.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Jaroslav Volf, left, and Ondrej Stepanek of Czech Republic compete during the men's canoe double slalom.
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Russia's Timofey Mozgov receives an arm to the head as he looks to shoot against Brazil's Tiago Splitter in the second half of the men's basketball preliminary round match.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Russia's Timofey Mozgov receives an arm to the head as he looks to shoot against Brazil's Tiago Splitter in the second half of the men's basketball preliminary round match.
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Great Britain's Chris Hoy celebrates after winning the men's team sprint gold final.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Great Britain's Chris Hoy celebrates after winning the men's team sprint gold final.
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The Danish team competes during the men's 4000-meter team pursuit qualifying round of the track cycling event.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – The Danish team competes during the men's 4000-meter team pursuit qualifying round of the track cycling event.
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China's Xuerui Li returns a shot against Pui Yin Yip of Hong Kong in their women's singles badminton quarter final.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – China's Xuerui Li returns a shot against Pui Yin Yip of Hong Kong in their women's singles badminton quarter final.
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Competition gets underway in the men's star sailing in Weymouth, England.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Competition gets underway in the men's star sailing in Weymouth, England.
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Roger Federer of Switzerland serves the ball to John Isner of the United States during the quarter-final of men's singles tennis.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Roger Federer of Switzerland serves the ball to John Isner of the United States during the quarter-final of men's singles tennis.
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Denmark's Claus Olesen competes in the men's star sailing in Weymouth, England.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Denmark's Claus Olesen competes in the men's star sailing in Weymouth, England.
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Great Britain's Etienne Stott reacts after winning gold in the men's canoe double slalom final.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Great Britain's Etienne Stott reacts after winning gold in the men's canoe double slalom final.
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Sweden's Anton Dahlberg and Sebastian Ostling compete in the men's 470 sailing in Weymouth, England.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Sweden's Anton Dahlberg and Sebastian Ostling compete in the men's 470 sailing in Weymouth, England.
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Sophie van Gestel of the Netherlands controls the ball during the women's beach volleyball preliminary phase group E match against Germany's Laura Ludwig and Sara Goller.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Sophie van Gestel of the Netherlands controls the ball during the women's beach volleyball preliminary phase group E match against Germany's Laura Ludwig and Sara Goller.
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Great Britain's Philip Hindes celebrates during men's team sprint track cycling qualifying against Germany.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Great Britain's Philip Hindes celebrates during men's team sprint track cycling qualifying against Germany.
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Canada's Marcus David loses control of his horse, Capital, in the dressage preliminaries.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Canada's Marcus David loses control of his horse, Capital, in the dressage preliminaries.
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Tunisian forward Makram Ben Romdhane, right, vies with Argentine forward Luis Scola during the men's preliminary round group A basketball match.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Tunisian forward Makram Ben Romdhane, right, vies with Argentine forward Luis Scola during the men's preliminary round group A basketball match.
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Kazakhstan's Gani Zhailauov, left, takes a hit from India's Bhagwan Jai during the men's lght bxing.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Kazakhstan's Gani Zhailauov, left, takes a hit from India's Bhagwan Jai during the men's lght bxing.
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Italy's Carlotta Ferlito competes on the balance beam in the artistic gymnastics women's individual all-around final.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Italy's Carlotta Ferlito competes on the balance beam in the artistic gymnastics women's individual all-around final.
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Serbia's Novak Djokovic celebrates after defeating France's Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the men's singles tennis quarter-finals.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Serbia's Novak Djokovic celebrates after defeating France's Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the men's singles tennis quarter-finals.
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Romania's Sandra Raluca Izbasa performs on the uneven bars during the artistic gymnastics women's individual all-around final.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Romania's Sandra Raluca Izbasa performs on the uneven bars during the artistic gymnastics women's individual all-around final.
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Ivan Kljakovic Gaspic of Croatia competes in the men's Finn sailing on Day 6 of the London 2012 Olympics.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Ivan Kljakovic Gaspic of Croatia competes in the men's Finn sailing on Day 6 of the London 2012 Olympics.
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Australia's Joe Ingles tries to score against China's Wang Zhizhi, left, and Yi Jianlian during a men's basketball preliminary round.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Australia's Joe Ingles tries to score against China's Wang Zhizhi, left, and Yi Jianlian during a men's basketball preliminary round.
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Jin Ma, left, and Chen Xu of China celebrate their victory over Indonesian foes in a mixed-doubles badminton semifinal.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Jin Ma, left, and Chen Xu of China celebrate their victory over Indonesian foes in a mixed-doubles badminton semifinal.
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Naomi van As of the Netherlands hugs teammate Eva de Goede after their team defeated China in a women's field hockey preliminary match.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Naomi van As of the Netherlands hugs teammate Eva de Goede after their team defeated China in a women's field hockey preliminary match.
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Italy's Valentina Vezzali is exuberant after beating France's Astrid Guyart in the women's foil team fencing semifinal.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Italy's Valentina Vezzali is exuberant after beating France's Astrid Guyart in the women's foil team fencing semifinal.
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Dorothee Schneider of Germany rides Diva Royal in the dressage grand prix in Greenwich Park in London.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Dorothee Schneider of Germany rides Diva Royal in the dressage grand prix in Greenwich Park in London.
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Victoria Azarenka of Belarus celebrates after winning in the women's singles tennis quarterfinals against Angelique Kerber of Germany.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Victoria Azarenka of Belarus celebrates after winning in the women's singles tennis quarterfinals against Angelique Kerber of Germany.
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Croatia's Marko Kopljar disappears behind the ball during a men's preliminary handball match between Croatia and Hungary.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Croatia's Marko Kopljar disappears behind the ball during a men's preliminary handball match between Croatia and Hungary.
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Germany's Dimitrij Ovtcharov serves during a men's singles table-tennis bronze medal match against Chih-Yuan Chuang of Taiwan.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Germany's Dimitrij Ovtcharov serves during a men's singles table-tennis bronze medal match against Chih-Yuan Chuang of Taiwan.
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Mongolia's Tuvshinbayar Naidan celebrates his victory in the men's under 100-kilogram judo event.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Mongolia's Tuvshinbayar Naidan celebrates his victory in the men's under 100-kilogram judo event.
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Denmark's Caroline Wozniacki serves to Serena Williams of the United States during the women's singles tennis quarterfinals.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Denmark's Caroline Wozniacki serves to Serena Williams of the United States during the women's singles tennis quarterfinals.
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Britain's David Florence, left, and teammate Richard Hounslow compete in the men's canoe double semifinal.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Britain's David Florence, left, and teammate Richard Hounslow compete in the men's canoe double semifinal.
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Chih-Yuan Chuang of Taiwan celebrates a point during the men's singles table-tennis bronze medal match against Germany's Dimitrij Ovtcharov.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Chih-Yuan Chuang of Taiwan celebrates a point during the men's singles table-tennis bronze medal match against Germany's Dimitrij Ovtcharov.
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Mayra Aguiar of Brazil, in white, and Kayla Harrison of the United States compete in the women's under 78-kilogram judo event.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Mayra Aguiar of Brazil, in white, and Kayla Harrison of the United States compete in the women's under 78-kilogram judo event.
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French centerback Nikola Karabatic, left, vies with a Tunisian opponent during a men's preliminary handball match.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – French centerback Nikola Karabatic, left, vies with a Tunisian opponent during a men's preliminary handball match.
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Britain's Carl Hester rides Utopia in the dressage grand prix at Greenwich Park in London.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Britain's Carl Hester rides Utopia in the dressage grand prix at Greenwich Park in London.
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Brazil's Emanuel Rego lands after saving a ball during the men's beach volleyball preliminary phase match against Italy.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Brazil's Emanuel Rego lands after saving a ball during the men's beach volleyball preliminary phase match against Italy.
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Bulgarian volleyball players, from left, Georgi Bratoev, Todor Aleksiev and Nikolay Nikolov wait for the serve in the second set against Australia.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Bulgarian volleyball players, from left, Georgi Bratoev, Todor Aleksiev and Nikolay Nikolov wait for the serve in the second set against Australia.
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Australian forward Joe Ingles jumps to score during the men's preliminary basketball match between Australia and China.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Australian forward Joe Ingles jumps to score during the men's preliminary basketball match between Australia and China.
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France's Laure Manaudou competes in the women's 200-meter backstroke heat.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – France's Laure Manaudou competes in the women's 200-meter backstroke heat.
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Brazil's Mayra Aguiar, in white, and Daria Pogorzelec of Poland compete in the women's under 78-kilogram judo event.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Brazil's Mayra Aguiar, in white, and Daria Pogorzelec of Poland compete in the women's under 78-kilogram judo event.
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Hungary's Richard Bognar fires his rifle in the men's double trap qualification round at the Royal Artillery Barracks in London.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Hungary's Richard Bognar fires his rifle in the men's double trap qualification round at the Royal Artillery Barracks in London.
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U.S. swimmer Missy Franklin competes in the women's 200-meter backstroke heat.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – U.S. swimmer Missy Franklin competes in the women's 200-meter backstroke heat.
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South Korea's Jeong Han shoots during the men's preliminary handball match against Spain.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – South Korea's Jeong Han shoots during the men's preliminary handball match against Spain.
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Britain's Bill Lucas and Sam Townsend appear downcast after finishing the men's double sculls final.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Britain's Bill Lucas and Sam Townsend appear downcast after finishing the men's double sculls final.
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Katelyn Falgowski, right, of the United States goes after the ball with Fiona Boyce of Australia during a women's field hockey preliminary match.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Katelyn Falgowski, right, of the United States goes after the ball with Fiona Boyce of Australia during a women's field hockey preliminary match.
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South African rowers celebrate after winning the gold medal in the men's lightweight four final A rowing event.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – South African rowers celebrate after winning the gold medal in the men's lightweight four final A rowing event.
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Switzerland's Dominik Meichtry competes in the men's 100-meter butterfly heat.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Switzerland's Dominik Meichtry competes in the men's 100-meter butterfly heat.
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Sizwe Ndlovu of South Africa celebrates after he and his team won the gold in the lightweight men's four final rowing event.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Sizwe Ndlovu of South Africa celebrates after he and his team won the gold in the lightweight men's four final rowing event.
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The U.S. team competes to win the gold medal in the women's eight final rowing event.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – The U.S. team competes to win the gold medal in the women's eight final rowing event.
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Andy Murray of Great Britain celebrates after defeating Nicolas Almagro of Spain in the men's singles tennis quarterfinal.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Andy Murray of Great Britain celebrates after defeating Nicolas Almagro of Spain in the men's singles tennis quarterfinal.
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Michael Phelps of the United States competes in the men's 100-meter butterfly heat.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Michael Phelps of the United States competes in the men's 100-meter butterfly heat.
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The U.S. rowing team throw Mary Whipple into the water as they celebrate winning gold in the women's eight rowing event.
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olympics 2-19 – The U.S. rowing team throw Mary Whipple into the water as they celebrate winning gold in the women's eight rowing event.
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France's Laure Manaudou competes in the women's 200-meter backstroke heat.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – France's Laure Manaudou competes in the women's 200-meter backstroke heat.
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Britain's Peter Robert Russell Wilson competes in the men's double trap shooting qualification.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Britain's Peter Robert Russell Wilson competes in the men's double trap shooting qualification.
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Belinda Hocking of Australia competes in the women's 200-meter backstroke heat.
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day six 22 cm – Belinda Hocking of Australia competes in the women's 200-meter backstroke heat.
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Dorothee Schneider of Germany competes in the dressage grand prix.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Dorothee Schneider of Germany competes in the dressage grand prix.
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Chinese forward Zhu Fangyu bleeds during a men's preliminary round basketball match between China and Australia.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Chinese forward Zhu Fangyu bleeds during a men's preliminary round basketball match between China and Australia.
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Italy's Greta Cicolari serves during a beach volleyball preliminary match against Canada.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Italy's Greta Cicolari serves during a beach volleyball preliminary match against Canada.
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Australia's Aidan Zingel, left, spikes next to teammate Harrison Peacock during a men's preliminary volleyball match against Bulgaria.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Australia's Aidan Zingel, left, spikes next to teammate Harrison Peacock during a men's preliminary volleyball match against Bulgaria.
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Italy's Marta Menegatti dives for a shot during a beach volleyball preliminary match against Canada.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Italy's Marta Menegatti dives for a shot during a beach volleyball preliminary match against Canada.
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Bulgarian volleyball players, from left, Georgi Bratoev, Viktor Yosifov and Todor Aleksiev attempt to set during a preliminary match against Australia.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Bulgarian volleyball players, from left, Georgi Bratoev, Viktor Yosifov and Todor Aleksiev attempt to set during a preliminary match against Australia.
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Yong Dae Lee, right, and Jae Sung Chung of South Korea celebrate their win over Indonesian opponents in the men's doubles badminton quarterfinal.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Yong Dae Lee, right, and Jae Sung Chung of South Korea celebrate their win over Indonesian opponents in the men's doubles badminton quarterfinal.
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South Korea's Park Mi-hyun casts a shadow on the Olympic Rings during a women's field hockey preliminary match against Japan at the Riverbank Arena.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – South Korea's Park Mi-hyun casts a shadow on the Olympic Rings during a women's field hockey preliminary match against Japan at the Riverbank Arena.
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Shaimaa Elgammal of Egypt watches from the sidelines during a women's foil team fencing round against Great Britain on Thursday.
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Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Shaimaa Elgammal of Egypt watches from the sidelines during a women's foil team fencing round against Great Britain on Thursday.
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South Korea, in red, and Japan do battle during the women's field hockey match Thursday.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – South Korea, in red, and Japan do battle during the women's field hockey match Thursday.
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Dimitrij Ovtcharov of Germany serves during a men's table-tennis singles semifinal match.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Dimitrij Ovtcharov of Germany serves during a men's table-tennis singles semifinal match.
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Dimitri Peters of Germany competes in the men's under 100-kilogram judo match.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Dimitri Peters of Germany competes in the men's under 100-kilogram judo match.
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Khatuna Lorig of the United States takes a shot in the women's individual 1/8 elimination archery event.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Khatuna Lorig of the United States takes a shot in the women's individual 1/8 elimination archery event.
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Mathias Boe, left, and Carsten Mogensen of Denmark celebrate their victory over Taiwan during the semifinal men's doubles badminton match.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Mathias Boe, left, and Carsten Mogensen of Denmark celebrate their victory over Taiwan during the semifinal men's doubles badminton match.
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South Korea's Junggeu Park jumps to shoot during a men's preliminary handball match against Spain.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – South Korea's Junggeu Park jumps to shoot during a men's preliminary handball match against Spain.
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Competitors dive into the pool at the start of the men's 50-meter freestyle heat.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Competitors dive into the pool at the start of the men's 50-meter freestyle heat.
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South Korea's Hwang Hee-Tae gets treated for an injury during a men's under 100-kilogram judo contest match.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – South Korea's Hwang Hee-Tae gets treated for an injury during a men's under 100-kilogram judo contest match.
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Cesar Cielo of Brazil reacts after finishing in the men's 50-meter freestyle heat eight.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Cesar Cielo of Brazil reacts after finishing in the men's 50-meter freestyle heat eight.
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Lithuanian forward Darius Songaila, left, tries to score against French center Ronny Turiaf during a men's preliminary round basketball match.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Lithuanian forward Darius Songaila, left, tries to score against French center Ronny Turiaf during a men's preliminary round basketball match.
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Cullen Jones of the United States swims in the men's 50-meter freestyle heat.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Cullen Jones of the United States swims in the men's 50-meter freestyle heat.
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Aleksandar Atanasijevic of Serbia spikes the ball against Denys Kaliberda and Marcus Bohme of Germany.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Aleksandar Atanasijevic of Serbia spikes the ball against Denys Kaliberda and Marcus Bohme of Germany.
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Katie Ledecky of the United States competes in a women's 800-meter freestyle heat.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Katie Ledecky of the United States competes in a women's 800-meter freestyle heat.
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New Zealand's Chris Harris, Sean O'Neill, Jade Uru and Tyson Williams react after finishing the men's four semifinal rowing event in Windsor, England.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – New Zealand's Chris Harris, Sean O'Neill, Jade Uru and Tyson Williams react after finishing the men's four semifinal rowing event in Windsor, England.
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Akane Shibata of Japan takes a shot during the women's hockey preliminary match between South Korea and Japan.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Akane Shibata of Japan takes a shot during the women's hockey preliminary match between South Korea and Japan.
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Fans fill the stands for rowing events at Eton Dorney in Windsor, England.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Fans fill the stands for rowing events at Eton Dorney in Windsor, England.
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South Korea's Lee Sung-Jin competes in the women's individual 1/8 archery elimination match at Lord's Cricket Ground.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – South Korea's Lee Sung-Jin competes in the women's individual 1/8 archery elimination match at Lord's Cricket Ground.
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Dimitri Peters, in white, of Germany and Jevgenijs Borodavko of Latvia compete in the men's under 100-kilogram judo match.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Dimitri Peters, in white, of Germany and Jevgenijs Borodavko of Latvia compete in the men's under 100-kilogram judo match.
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Ahmed Al Hatmi of Oman competes in the men's double trap shooting qualification round. Check out photos from <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2012/08/03/worldsport/gallery/olympics-day-seven/index.html" target="_blank">Day 7 of the competition</a> from Friday, August 3.
Photos: Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics
Day 6: The best photos of the Olympics – Ahmed Al Hatmi of Oman competes in the men's double trap shooting qualification round. Check out photos from Day 7 of the competition from Friday, August 3.
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U.S. swimmer Michael Phelps -- the most decorated Olympian of all time -- celebrates with his gold medal after the 4x200 freestyle on Tuesday, August 9. Phelps has won 21 gold medals so far in his career (25 medals in all), and he's looking to add more to his collection in Rio de Janeiro.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
U.S. swimmer Michael Phelps -- the most decorated Olympian of all time -- celebrates with his gold medal after the 4x200 freestyle on Tuesday, August 9. Phelps has won 21 gold medals so far in his career (25 medals in all), and he's looking to add more to his collection in Rio de Janeiro.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
U.S. swimmer Michael Phelps -- the most decorated Olympian of all time -- celebrates with his gold medal after the 4x200 freestyle on Tuesday, August 9. Phelps has won 21 gold medals so far in his career (25 medals in all), and he's looking to add more to his collection in Rio de Janeiro.
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Phelps competes in the 100-meter butterfly during the Rio Games.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps competes in the 100-meter butterfly during the Rio Games.
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Phelps celebrates after winning the 200-meter butterfly in Rio. The victory avenged a loss at the 2008 Games in Beijing.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps celebrates after winning the 200-meter butterfly in Rio. The victory avenged a loss at the 2008 Games in Beijing.
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Phelps takes part in a qualifying race in Rio for the 200-meter individual medley.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps takes part in a qualifying race in Rio for the 200-meter individual medley.
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Phelps shows off his gold medal from the 200-meter medley at the London Olympics. It was his 20th career medal.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps shows off his gold medal from the 200-meter medley at the London Olympics. It was his 20th career medal.
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Phelps celebrates in 2012 after becoming the most-decorated Olympic athlete in history. He had just won his 19th medal after the 4x200 freestyle.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps celebrates in 2012 after becoming the most-decorated Olympic athlete in history. He had just won his 19th medal after the 4x200 freestyle.
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Phelps competes in the 200-meter butterfly in London.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps competes in the 200-meter butterfly in London.
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Phelps celebrates with teammates after winning the 4x100 freestyle in London.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps celebrates with teammates after winning the 4x100 freestyle in London.
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Phelps looks on during the 4x100 freestyle in London.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps looks on during the 4x100 freestyle in London.
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Phelps climbs out of the pool in London after a shock fourth-place finish in the 400-meter medley.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps climbs out of the pool in London after a shock fourth-place finish in the 400-meter medley.
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Phelps is hugged by teammate Ryan Lochte in 2008 after winning the 200-meter medley in Beijing. Phelps won eight gold medals in Beijing -- the most-ever in one Olympics.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps is hugged by teammate Ryan Lochte in 2008 after winning the 200-meter medley in Beijing. Phelps won eight gold medals in Beijing -- the most-ever in one Olympics.
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Phelps sets a world record in the 200-meter butterfly in Beijing.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps sets a world record in the 200-meter butterfly in Beijing.
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Phelps shouts encouragement to teammates in the 4x200 freestyle in Beijing.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps shouts encouragement to teammates in the 4x200 freestyle in Beijing.
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Phelps won six gold and two bronze medals in the 2004 Summer Games in Athens, Greece. Here, he holds a bronze from the 200-meter freestyle.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps won six gold and two bronze medals in the 2004 Summer Games in Athens, Greece. Here, he holds a bronze from the 200-meter freestyle.
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Phelps celebrates winning gold in the 400-meter medley in 2004. It was his first Olympic gold, and it came in a world-record time of 4:08.26.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps celebrates winning gold in the 400-meter medley in 2004. It was his first Olympic gold, and it came in a world-record time of 4:08.26.
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Phelps smiles after winning the 200-meter butterfly during the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2004.
Photos: Phelps: All-time Olympic recordbreaker
Phelps smiles after winning the 200-meter butterfly during the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2004.
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Phelps medal kiss 0809Phelps 081125 rio olympics 080906 rio olympics 0810Michael Phelps 20th medalphelps olympic record breakerphelps 18 medals londonphelps london silverphelps olympicsphelps shock defeat londonphelps shock winphelps beijing world recordbeijing 200m phelpsphelps 200m greece swimmingphelps olympics 2004 winPhelps olympic trials
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"I said to him in the meet room this is our last 200 of the meet and our last 200 together. We were just joking around, laughing about it. Ryan has probably been one of the toughest competitors ever to swim against," Phelps said.
Earlier, Phelps described the moment he received a phone call from President Barack Obama on Wednesday.
"He just got on and was saying how everyone is supporting me and is behind me at home and how proud everyone is of me. That was pretty cool," Phelps said. "And he finished by saying, 'Make sure you tell your mom I said hi.' It was a good call."
Earlier Thursday, American Rebecca Soni set a world record in winning gold in the women's 200-meter breaststroke. She swam 2:19.59 to beat Satomi Suzuki of Japan, who clocked an Asian record 2:20.72, for silver.
"I'm so happy, I didn't try to focus on medals or records," she said. "I just wanted to swim one more race the way I knew I could."
In the men's 200-meter backstroke, Tyler Clary of the United States beat Ryosuke Irie of Japan and Lochte for the gold.
Clary was stunned to have beaten the favorite, Lochte.
"It's not how I planned the race turning out at all," he told a BBC TV interviewer. Then still in disbelief, he said, "You can wake me up now."
Phelps cements legacy as most decorated Olympian
Team USA had a easy night on the basketball court against Nigeria. Very easy.
The Americans scored an Olympic record 156 points in 40 minutes, winning by 83 points -- which actually isn't a record.
Carmelo Anthony led the U.S. with 37 points.
"We shot the ball better than any team in a game I have ever coached," Mike Krzyzewski said. "Our guys just couldn't miss tonight. When you hit 29 threes it's very difficult to lose."
The American led by "only" 33 points at halftime. But they shot an amazing 71% for the game and beat Brazil's 1988 mark of 138 points.
"It could have been anyone out there against us tonight, when we shoot that well" we'll beat anyone, Anthony said.
It was reminiscent of the 1992 Dream Team dismantling Angola by 68 points. The two teams have been compared and Thursday's result will add to the debate as to which team of NBA all-stars is better.
In its next game Saturday against Lithuania, the U.S. should get a more difficult opponent. But Lithuania only beat Nigeria by 19 in game earlier this week.
Besides Obama, another president made Olympic news: Russia's Vladimir Putin attended the judo competition Thursday with British Prime Minister David Cameron. Putin, who is himself a black belt in the martial art, was treated to the sight of a gold for Russian judo contestant Tagir Khaibulaev.
"I look forward to taking the president to the judo at the Olympic park, but I note that we will be spectators and not participants," Cameron joked after their meeting at Downing Street.
Tiny Gabby Douglas, nicknamed the Flying Squirrel, claimed gold for Team USA in the women's individual all-around gymnastics after a stunning final floor routine, leaving Russia's Viktoria Komova to pick up the silver.
"I wasn't really watching the scores, I was just going out there trying to do my rountines the best I could and I did," Douglas said. "I came out on top and I'm just so excited."
It was heartbreak for Douglas' countrywoman Aly Raisman, though, as she tied for third with Aliya Mustafina of Russia but lost out on the bronze medal because of technical deductions.
World champion Jordyn Wieber was excluded from the women's individual all-around final because she finished fourth, but third among Americans, in a qualifying system that allows only two people per nation.
SI: Phelps flips script on Lochte with victory in the 200-meter IM
Cycling moved Thursday from the streets of London to the velodrome, a building praised for its sweeping curves and a track made of sustainably sourced Siberian pine, with qualifying rounds and finals in the men's and women's team sprint events.
It was a day of drama, with Team GB's Victoria Pendleton and Jess Varnish -- who had major gold medal hopes -- relegated from the women's team sprint for an illegal changeover. More upset followed in the medal final, when the Chinese in turn were relegated from the top spot, giving gold to Germany.
There were also scorchingly fast times, with China's women setting a world record in the team sprint and the British men doing likewise in the team pursuit and the team sprint.
And then Team GB blew away the French to claim gold in the men's team sprint final and keep the title they won in Beijing -- setting another world record in the process and earning Chris Hoy his fifth gold.
Forget Twitter; in China, it's the Weibo Olympics
The host nation's victory, which raised the roof in the velodrome, echoed the success of Team GB's road cyclists Wednesday, when Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome took gold and bronze in the time trial. The victory made Wiggins, a former track cyclist, the most decorated British Olympian, with seven medals.
New postage stamps were released in the United Kingdom on Thursday, celebrating Wiggins alongside rowers Helen Glover and Heather Stanning, who brought Team GB its first gold medal of the 2012 Games on Wednesday.
Team USA struck gold in the rowing Thursday as the women's eight retained their title, showing their dominance once again.
South Africa took gold in the lightweight men's four after a superb late rally, relegating Team GB to silver, to the disappointment of many in the crowd. Also on the rowing lake, New Zealand won the men's doubles sculls final, the country's first gold in London.
At the equestrian arena, Ann Romney, wife of the soon-to-be Republican presidential nominee, was on hand to see her horse Rafalca compete in dressage, ridden by Jan Ebeling. Mitt Romney wasn't there, though, as he was traveling from Boston to Colorado for campaign events.
The oldest competitor taking part in the London Games, 71-year-old Hiroshi Hoketsu of Japan, rode in the same event on his horse, Whisper.
In southwest London, tennis fans are enjoying quarterfinals at Wimbledon in both the men's and women's singles competition.
Team GB claimed gold and silver in the men's canoe slalom, with Tim Baillie and Etienne Stott taking the top spot ahead of David Florence and Richard Hounslow, and a gold in the men's double trap shooting for Peter Wilson.
But American Kayla Harrison beat Great Britain's Gemma Gibbons to gold in the 78-kilogram judo.
Victory in the women's individual archery competition went to South Korea's Ki Bo Bae, while China's Zhang Jike won the men's table tennis singles title and France's Emilie Fer won a kayaking gold.
Meanwhile, the fallout from the badminton scandal continued.
One of the Chinese badminton players disqualified from the Games on Wednesday for trying to lose a match has indicated that she is quitting the sport, accusing the badminton governing body of ruining her dreams.
"This is my last match," Yu Yang wrote on her microblog account late Wednesday. "Farewell Badminton World Federation, farewell my beloved badminton."
However, her official team apology, issued after her microblog comments, was less unequivocal.
"I apologize to all our fans because we failed to abide by the Olympic spirit and failed to present a game as it should have been. ... I am ready to do my best in every game of my professional career in the future, to show all of my fans that I've changed," it reads.
Yu, her women's doubles partner, Wang Xiaoli, and six other players were kicked out of the competition Wednesday by the Badminton World Federation in one of the most controversial episodes of the London Games.
The athletes were accused of playing to lose in order to face easier opponents in future matches, drawing boos from spectators and warnings from match officials Tuesday night. The other doubles pairs booted out were from South Korea and Indonesia. They lost an appeal for reinstatement.
On Day 6 of the Games, the United States topped the medals table with 37 total to China's 34. Each nation has 18 golds.
After a slow start, two strong days have sent Team GB shooting up the medal table, though it's still in seventh place.
Complete coverage: London Olympics