If the number 8 is a sign of prosperity and luck in the Chinese culture, it is also a synonym for happiness for Michael Phelps. The American swimmer, 23, could this year enter into legend by breaking the all-time record of 7 gold medals amassed by his compatriot, Mark Spitz, at the Munich games in 1972.

Phelps has already begun the count, with 3 gold medals: in the 400m individual medley on Sunday; the 4x400m freestyle relay on Monday; and the 200m freestyle on Tuesday.

He even offered himself the luxury of a world record in each of the three finals.

"I started out with the hardest one. It’s out of the way now and I’m just swimming to have fun."

Phelps seems on track to enter into legend. But, he specified: "I prefer to become the first Phelps than the second Spitz."