Michael Phelps reflects on his 12-year Olympic career

LONDON (WHDH) -- Michael Phelps is swimming into the sunset.

The greatest Olympic champion capped off his career with an 18th gold medal last night.

Sunday, Phelps took time to reflect on his remarkable career.

He also responded to one inquiry about whether he's really done with Olympic competition.

After a 12 year Olympic career and a record-setting 22 medals Michael Phelps said this is it.

“This is the first day of my retirement and the first day of my new life."

To say Phelps has done it all is almost an understatement.

He finishes as the most decorated Olympian in history.

He is the first male swimmer ever to take first place in the same event three times.

And he has 18 gold medals.

Phelps took gold in his final four events in London.

The latest Saturday in the men's 4x100 medley relay.

"From the moment we got here realizing this was not only my last swim meet but also my last Olympics. The emotions were just flying all week,” said Phelps.

Those emotions turning from Olympic fever to life after swimming.

"I want to go and travel around the world and have some fun. There will be no more staring at the block line for four hours a day anymore,” said Phelps.

While he may not have competitive swimming anymore, he certainly will have plenty to reflect back on.

“I can look back on my career and say I’ve been able to do everything i wanted to and i think that's a pretty good way to go out."

A veteran of five Olympic games, swimmer Dara Torres tweeted: "I'm betting Michael Phelps isn't done swimming...anyone care to wager?"

Phelps responded, “Yes, I would love to.”