Michael Phelps: Best Olympian ever joins Youth Olympic Games

Swimming superstar Michael Phelps has been appointed the first official Ambassador of the Youth Olympic Games (YOG), which will be held in Singapore later this year. His role -- to support the Youth Olympics by encouraging the involvement of young people around the world.

It's quite a coup for YOG, considering he's a 16-time Olympic medalist, has broken thirty-seven world records in swimming and has been dubbed "the greatest swimmer and one of the greatest Olympians of all time" by MSNBC, NBC and ESPN. And all before he turns 25 this coming June.

"I am delighted that I have been given the opportunity to become the first official Ambassador of the Youth Olympic Games, and can't wait to get working with the YOG team to promote the first event this summer," said Phelps to AFP. "The Youth Olympic Games is an excellent initiative, not only for the athletes competing but also those who are inspired to get into sport and be more active."