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Gold, gold, gold! Photographers share their favourite shots from the Sydney Olympics

It's been 20 years since Sydney hosted the 2000 Olympics and as we look back to those incredible Games, Getty Images have selected their favourite gold medal-winning moments.

Here, photographers Adam Pretty and Michael Steele have shared their thoughts from what it was like on the scene.

Adam Pretty, Getty Images photographer

"The swimming atmosphere during the men's 4x100m freestyle relay was and still is probably the loudest I have ever heard a crowd - the atmosphere was amazing!

"Cathy Freeman's win is also one I hope to never forget. The wave of sound that followed Cathy around the stadium was spine tingling. Seeing her win and then celebrate with the Aboriginal flag was amazing to witness and I still get really emotional now in remembering that night.

"The crowds throughout the events were great, but it wasn't just because of how vocal they were. They displayed a really positive and welcoming vibe during the games. I'm Sydney born and raised, and I have never experienced anything like it. It was like one big love fest. Everyone was having a good time and making the most of such a unique experience.

"Competing in a home Olympics is always going to be more special as an athlete because with the extra pressure comes the extra support and I think it really gives them a boost."

Michael Steele, Getty Images photographer

"My first ever summer Olympics was in 1996 at Atlanta and is still my worst experience of any sporting event I've photographed in over 34 years as a professional. Thankfully, Sydney was the complete opposite. The Aussies put on a great spectacle, it always helps when there are great sporting moments made by the local athletes such as Cathy Freeman and Ian Thorpe.

"Factoring in amazing races like Haile Gebrselassie versus Paul Tergat -- still one of the greatest races in Olympic history and a personal favourite of mine -- and you've got an Olympic event to remember.

"The success of the home nation always gives the Games a boost and like London 2012 you want to show the world how to put on a show and feel proud that the athletes and organisation of the event is the best.

"I can't imagine the pressure on Cathy Freeman, Ian Thorpe, and Australia's other athletes during this time. The whole country relied on them to bring home the gold, but true champions always find a way."