Michael Phelps’ childhood wasn’t easy. When he was just nine years old, his parents went through a divorce in 1994. Subsequently, he had a rocky relationship with his father, who married again in 2000. The divorce had a severe negative impact on Phelps and his siblings.
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Phelps was introduced to swimming by the influence of his sisters. Training under the guidance of Bob Bowman since childhood, Phelps went on to achieve tremendous success at a very young age. Further, he had a smooth transition to his senior career, becoming one of the most decorated Olympians of all time. Recently, he announced some grim news on social media.
Michael Phelps shares an emotional tribute to his late father
Earlier this week, the legendary American swimmer took to Instagram to remember his late father. Sharing some pictures with him, Phelps said, “You’ll always be my dad… And I’ll always be your son… Love you dad and I will miss you. RIP dad.”
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In one of the pictures, a young Phelps is seen sharing a warm moment with his father, Michael Fred Phelps wearing his Maryland State Trooper uniform. The latter served as a Maryland State Trooper for 28 long years. Moreover, he also played football during his high school and college days.
Further, in another picture, Phelps is seen posing alongside his father with his son in his arms. In the subsequent picture, Fred is seen sharing an adorable moment with Michael’s son.
Phelps once avoided his father
After his parents’ divorce in 1994, the legendary American swimmer had a rocky relationship with his father. While battling a mental health crisis, Phelps’ therapist once suggested that he should spend time with his father.
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LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 24: Michael Phelps (R) of the United States looks on as he stands next to his coach Bob Bowman during a training session ahead of the London Olympic Games at the Aquatics Centre in Olympic Park on July 24, 2012 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
Talking about this incident, Phelps said, “When my therapist said invite him for the family weekend I was like, why? It’ll be just another letdown that he’ll give me in my life and I don’t want a letdown. I don’t want that fear of rejection once again.”
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However, after his 2014 drunk driving arrest and subsequent rehabilitation, Phelps reconnected with his father.
