The Beijing Olympics has witnessed so many superlative performances, most of which are set to go down in history.

1. Michael Phelps - most titled athlete

Michael "Super Fish" Phelps swept eight gold medals in as many days and is behind seven new world records. His races were watched by U.S. President George Bush and the world's richest person Bill Gates, while famous tennis player Serena Williams wants his autograph. The word, Phelpsian, has been coined, meaning unprecedented victory.

2. Usain Bolt - most benevolent sprinter

The world's fastest man has a big heart. Bolt has donated 50,000 U.S. dollars to earthquake victims in southwest China's Sichuan province.

3. Matthew Emmons -- most tragic coincidence

Emmons blew an Olympic shooting gold in 2004 when he fired at a wrong target. In Beijing, the American squandered a huge lead by hitting a 4.4-point last shot.

4. Liu Xiang - most shocking withdrawal

Defending Olympic champion Liu Xiang of China pulled out of the 110m hurdles race injured, shocking the whole world.