Who do you think is best, Phelps, Thorpe, or Spitz, and why

Question

Who do you think is best, Phelps, Thorpe, or Spitz, and why

Answer 1

Phelps because he currently holds the most world records.

Answer 2

Phelps because he has more gold medals than Thorpe and he has surpassed Spitz's record.

Answer 3

It's a shame that there's no fair comparison between the three because of ever increasing technology of the swimwear. Records are being smashed this year left and right this year mostly due the new suits. If Thorpe were competing this year then I believe he would beat Phelps more often than not. I don't know enough about Spitz to comment on him. I just have to say there was nothing like watching the Thorpedo shoot through the water and it's a real shame he retired so young.