20. Maryland: Michael Phelps (Baltimore)
Growing up in the Towson area just outside Baltimore, Phelps used swimming as an outlet for his ADHD. Possessing a perfect anatomical build for the water—a massive wingspan and double-jointed ankles—he became a living torpedo. He is the most decorated Olympian of all time, accumulating an astonishing 28 medals, 23 of which are gold. His performance at the 2008 Beijing Games, where he won a record eight gold medals, remains the pinnacle of aquatic sports.