Australian swimmer who won five Olympic gold medals and set world records in freestyle events from 200m to 800m.
Background
Born in Sydney, Thorpe joined his local club at age eight and made the senior Australian team at 14.
Career
He won three golds at Sydney 2000 (400m freestyle and two relays) and two more at Athens 2004 (200m and 400m freestyle). He retired in 2006 but attempted a comeback ahead of London 2012, falling short of qualification.
Style of play
Nicknamed “Thorpedo,” he was 6’5” with size-17 feet and combined long stroke length with a six-beat kick. His turns and underwater work were particular strengths.