I think sometimes I guess you see records, say you want to get there and use that as motivation. In a way, it's kind of cool if there is a possibility to rewrite history and be up there with the greats of Olympic history.

In this quote, Michael Phelps reflects on the role that records play in motivating athletes. He suggests that seeing existing records can inspire individuals to push themselves further, using the achievement of surpassing those records as a form of motivation. The idea of rewriting history by setting new records gives athletes the opportunity to be remembered as part of the greats in their respective fields, especially in the context of the Olympics, where achievements are celebrated and immortalized.

Phelps acknowledges the allure of breaking records and how it fuels an athlete’s drive to excel. He recognizes that the pursuit of these accomplishments goes beyond just personal gain, as it offers the possibility of becoming part of a larger legacy in the history of the Olympics. This desire to be "up there with the greats" speaks to the idea of immortality in sports—an athlete's name forever etched alongside legends such as Mark Spitz or Larisa Latynina.

The origin of this quote comes from Phelps' own Olympic journey, where he set a remarkable 23 gold medals, cementing himself as one of the greatest Olympians in history. His statement highlights his understanding that the pursuit of excellence is not only about personal glory, but also about leaving a lasting impact on the sport. It is clear that, for Phelps, the motivation is not only about being the best in the moment but also about being remembered for his achievements in the broader scope of Olympic history.

Ultimately, Phelps' words reflect the competitive nature of elite athletes who are driven by the idea of legacy. The possibility of surpassing past legends and making their mark on history is a powerful force, and for Phelps, it has been a key element in achieving greatness in the pool. His focus on rewriting history shows the immense respect he has for the sport and the remarkable individuals who came before him.