Olympic Swimming 2012: Best Races Still Left to Watch

Swimming has dominated the early headlines from the 2012 London Olympics, but there's still several remaining races that will captivate the world.

From perhaps the most anticipated duel in the sport's history, to a pair of highly exciting relays, there will be no lack of drama in the pool this week. Be sure to tune into the following events, as they will likely be some of the best London has to offer.

Men's 200-Meter Individual Medley

This race is going to be so awesome that I'm actually giddy just writing about it.

It is the supreme duel between Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte, the ultimate showdown between the two best swimmers in the world. Phelps won gold in the event in Beijing, finishing with a world-record time of 1:54.23. Lochte broke that record at the 2011 World Championships, posting a 1:54.00 on his way to the gold.

In their other head-to-head battle, Lochte crushed Phelps, beating him by more than four seconds in the 400-meter IM. We should be treated to a more dramatic matchup in the 200, though, as Phelps specializes in this event.

The qualifying will be held Wednesday, with the epic final showdown coming Thursday.

Women's 4x200 Freestyle

The Americans won gold in this event at the 2011 World Championships, and after the men took first in the 4x200 freestyle on Tuesday, the pressure will be the USA women to follow suit.

They're certainly capable of taking home the gold, as they will field an incredibly talented team. Missy Franklin and Allison Schmitt, the two locks for the team, have both won individual golds in London. Ditto for Dana Vollmer, who has already set a world record in the 2012 Games.

Joining Vollmer as candidates for the final two spots are Lauren Perdue, Shannon Vreeland and Alyssa Anderson. Regardless of who is chosen, the Americans will put on one hell of a show in the finals on Wednesday.

Men's 4x100 Medley

The last high-profile swimming event will also be one of the most exciting, as Michael Phelps and Team USA will look to defend their gold medal from Beijing.

Team USA set the world record that year, then broke it again in 2009. They will look to have a similar performance this year, but the Australians and Japanese will be major threats.

The American team will definitely consist of Phelps and freestyle specialist Nathan Adrian. Matt Grevers, Brendan Hansen and Eric Shanteau will contend for the final two spots.

Like the women, though, regardless of who the Americans put out there, they will field a gold-medal caliber team.

It will also be the final race of Phelps historic Olympic career, so there will be no lack of drama.

The qualifying heats will be held on Friday, with the finals coming on Saturday.