Legendary swimmer Michael Phelps bid farewell to his father, who passed away a few days ago, with a heartwarming social media post. Phelps Jr., a Baltimore native, penned an emotional caption and posted some heartwarming pictures on Instagram. These images were of Phelps and his late father, Phelps’ father with one of the Olympian’s children, and all three of them in the same frame.

Fans and other prominent figures stood in solidarity with the most decorated Olympian as he grieved the loss of his father. Some big names included the likes of the Baltimore Ravens, Lindsey Vonn, CC Sabathia, and J. R. Smith, among others.

A son’s heartfelt post

Phelps’ Instagram post’s caption read- “You’ll always be my dad…And I’ll always be your son…Love you dad and I will miss you ❤️❤️ rip dad.” 

The Ravens offered their condolences and commented on the Olympic legend’s post. Their comment read- “So sorry for your loss 💜 Your Ravens family is sending you love”

Alpine ski racer Lindsey Vonn wrote, “Im so sorry for your loss. He will always be there.” Many other celebrities and athletes expressed their support and offered their condolences in the comments section of the post.

It is also worth noting that more fans know about the Flying Fish’s mother, Debbie Phelps (a published author) than they know about his late father. In an interview from the past, Michael had explained what it meant for him to live away from his father.

But this isn’t to suggest that the Olympian did not share tremendous respect towards his father. In fact, his experiences with his dad somewhere should’ve led to him becoming the kind of devoted father that he is to his three sons.

Michael Phelps’ connection to the Ravens

It is a known fact that Phelps Jr. is a Ravens superfan. It is no wonder that fans adore him and show their support through big gestures.

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In 2016, Ravens paused their preseason game against the Carolina Panthers to witness the Olympian clinch his 22nd gold medal at the Rio Olympics.

Phelps has previously credited Ravens legend, Ray Lewis, for helping him through a difficult period. There is no questioning Phelps’ devotion to his home team.

The 23-time Olympic gold medalist has even had the honor of leading the AFC North franchise out of the tunnel. While this might indeed be VIP treatment, the legendary swimmer deserves every bit of it.

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