Despite Being a World-Class Swimmer, Michael Phelps Once Signaled His Lofty Ambitions to Try an Exciting Sport in His Career – “Decision Was Kind of Left to Us”
Follow Us
Michael Phelps is a name synonymous with greatness. The legendary swimmer set many world records in his prime, winning tons of medals and accolades. Nicknamed the Baltimore Bullet today, Phelps had a rather tough time growing up. The greatest Olympian of all time was diagnosed with ADHD at a young age and, as a result, played a wide variety of sports in order to stay engaged.
While the legend made it big in swimming, he once revealed that he came close to taking up another sport. His father, Fred Phelps, was a part of the college football team, while his sisters were swimmers. The star had a range of options to choose from. So, what did he almost end up picking?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Michael Phelps and his siblings had their decisions to make
Since his childhood, Phelps was surrounded by athletes in the form of his siblings and father. He participated in many sports, such as baseball, lacrosse, soccer, and swimming. Although his father was a football player, he never took to the sport.
He once mentioned how he and his sisters chose their own path and were free to do so. He explained, “My sisters and I, the decision was kind of left to us when it came to what we wanted to do.”
Trending
“Ricky Starks and”: Triple H’s WWE Backed to Sign Three Top AEW Talents From Tony Khan Following Dynasty
April 23, 2024 06:29 AM EDT
‘RIP’ – Heartbroken Brother of John McEnroe Mourns ESPN Legend’s Tragic Death Who Last Tweeted About Coco Gauff
April 21, 2024 02:43 PM EDT
Despite Trading Zach Wilson, Sean Payton Rumored to “Throw Away” Broncos’ 2024 to Secure Shedeur Sanders as Russell Wilson’s Replacement
April 23, 2024 05:14 AM EDT
After Confirming Patriots Interest, JJ McCarthy Reveals Tom Brady Was Speaking to Him Throughout National Championship Winning Season
April 24, 2024 07:04 PM EDT
Travis Kelce’s Mom Donna Joins $400M Rich Businesswoman for ‘Over 50 & Fabulous’ Venture
April 24, 2024 12:56 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest Swimming stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
In fact, the champion seemed to have taken a fancy to lacrosse. He mentioned how lacrosse was the biggest sport out of the many then. However, things obviously took a turn. The legend made his first national record in the 100-meter butterfly in 1996. This achievement was huge enough for the lacrosse enthusiast to switch to swimming.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
“Could Hit the Biggest Guy”: Michael Phelps’ Late Father Once Recalled His Incredible High School Football Days
Once the tide had turned, it wasn’t long before Phelps etched his name in the history books of the Olympics. He set 39 world records and won 23 Olympic gold medals. Throughout his career, he set the bar high for other athletes.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
While he struggled with several mental health problems, he grew vocal about his fight and encouraged others to do the same. Eventually, he retired in 2016, bidding goodbye to the sport and leaving behind an unmatchable legacy.
Watch this story: Lindsey Vonn, Cody Simpson, Chandler Parson, and entire sports world mourns the loss of Michael Phelps’ father
Edited by:
Melroy Fernandes