America's Sportsman of the Year, 1954-2008

Michael Phelps is the Sports Illustrated "Sportsman of the Year" for 2008.

I've read more than a few folks complaining that the magazine cover looks too PhotoShopped, especially his face. Obviously, there is some chopping involved (you've got a masthead and a new background in there) but who knows.

Check out a video of Heinz Kluetmeier's photoshoot with Phelps here. Wish it was a little less fluff and more technical.

The issue also features a fold-out spread detailing all the annual honorees since 1954. There have been several "Sportswomen" of the year and Tiger Woods has won it twice. The Michael Jordan 3D cover and the Woods' illustration cover are excellent. Heck, the Yastrzemski cover almost looks like something done with craft paper.