Michael Phelps, popularly known as the Flying Fish, is an inspiration for swimming enthusiasts. Be it his athletic physique, well-matching persona, or his expertise in the field, everything is noteworthy about him. Phelps’ significance in the history of swimming is beyond imagination. All in all, he’s the recipient of 23 Olympic gold medals. Well, his career and achievements are known to all, but what about his former love, or perhaps, school love?

Phelps’ middle school girlfriend once opened up about their relationship. In addition to that, she also noted some changes in the athlete. 

Michael Phelps’ sweet gesture 

Back in 1996, Michael Phelps was only an 11-year-old  filled with excitement about swimming. Since then, the swimming G.O.A.T started training under Bob Bowman and followed him everywhere he went. Nonetheless, little Phelps didn’t forget to pay attention to his personal life.

The worldwide famous swimmer was a shy man back in school. He used to study at Dumbarton Middle School, and so did his then-girlfriend, Molly Baldwin. She was two years older than Phelps; the athlete was in sixth grade, while his girlfriend was in eighth grade. 

Molly once revealed her initial thought regarding their relationship. She assumed that it would be weird to be with him, given the age gap between them. Nevertheless, nobody could stop the two lovers.

Although their relationship didn’t last, the moments they spent together are cherishable. Molly recalls the time when Phelps gave her a glamorous red rose during her graduation. 

She said, “He must have used all of his allowances”.

Molly also mentioned watching “Jurassic Park” together. Since Michael Phelps was somewhat of a renowned face at that time, the school’s bulletin board had his picture on it. “I stole the picture. I still might have it.” said the swimmer’s middle school girlfriend.

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Phelps’ sweet gesture surely did occupy a spot in Molly’s heart. 

Did Phelps change with time?

In the same conversation, Molly added another detail about the Olympian. Molly saw the version of the icon that many haven’t. Given that, she said that 11-year-old Phelps was way shyer. 

“He’s stayed true to his character,” said Molly. “But he’s not as shy as he used to be.”

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On a scale of 1-10, Phelps looks to be a 20, in terms of the metamorphosis he went through, from his 11-year-old self.