Michael Phelps is one of the most common names in the swimming world. Starting from his achievements to his perfectly fitting persona, fans admire everything. Since the age of 7, the athlete fell in love with swimming and worked hard to reach the peak. The legend is also the recipient of several awards, including the World swimmer of the Year Award. Nonetheless, in 2016, the iconic swimmer announced his retirement from the sport. 

Just before the 2016 Rio Olympics, there were rumors about Michael Phelps returning to the game. But was everyone happy to receive the news of a comeback?

Michael Phelps returned to swimming

The 37-year-old has a collection of 28 Olympic medals; 23 gold, 3 silver, and 2 bronze. That being said, Phelps’ fandom is spread all across the planet. Furthermore, his expertise in swimming was transparent in every performance of his. 

The Flying Fish retired from the sport for the first time, after his victory at the 2012 Summer Olympics. However, that was not the end. Four years later, when the Rio Olympics were on the verge, rumors indicated Phelps’ comeback. 

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While there was an immense crowd wanting him to revive, there were not very supportive of the news. Surprisingly, Olympic decathlon champion Bruce Jenner, now Caitlyn Jenner, was one of them. 

“No… He’s done,” said the decathlete in a video, when the journalist asked him about Michael Phelps’ return. Jenner stated, “Quit while you’re ahead.”

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No matter what, the athlete came back into the arena and bagged five gold medals along with a silver medal. Before that, in the 2012 London Olympics, Phelps brought home four gold, and two silver medals. 

Phelps’ journey to being a legend

The Baltimore Bullet started preparing for the Olympics with his coach, Bob Bowman, when he was 11. His visions and goals were so distinct and clear that nothing could stop him from reaching his peak.  

“When I was 11, I said I want to break a world record, I want to win a gold medal and I want to make it to the Olympic team,” the swimming champ said. “Eight years later I was able to get it all, get it all in one bang.”

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Nevertheless, it wasn’t an easy-breezy journey. He had to undergo several hours of back-breaking training that helped him reach heights.