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“Would Not Have Ended Pretty”: Just Like Prince Williams and Kate Middleton, Michael Phelps and Nicole Johnson Took a Huge Step for Their Relationships Survival

Published 10/03/2022, 8:15 AM EDT

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Michael Phelps is renowned for slaying different swimming techniques. He is undoubtedly one of the all-time great athletes and has motivated generations of swimmers. Meanwhile, the legend’s wife, Nicole Johnson, has supported him through some of his most trying periods. Since his retirement, he has been honest about his mental health difficulties.

However, way back, before the couple got married, they had split up. In various interviews, Nicole and Michael have shared how difficult that period was for them. In addition, their story, from splitting up to getting married, is quite similar to the Royal family of England’s couple. 

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Michael Phelps and Nicole’s split-up story

In 2016, Michael and Nicole got married in a secret ceremony. He has frequently discussed how much of an impact she has made on his life in interviews. Also, in 2014, when Michael was going through a tough time, Nicole was there for him. 

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During an interview with Cosmopolitan, Nicole shared some words about her relationship with Michael before their wedding. Meanwhile, she was asked, “Kate Middleton and Prince William went through a brief split before getting back together and getting married. They said it was the best thing that ever happened to them. What would you say you learned from that time you guys split up?”

His Royal Highness Prince William and Her Royal Highness Kate broke up when they were dating each other. However, they learned with time. Fortunately, they reconciled and took a romantic trip to the Seychelles, where they allegedly made a deal to wed.

In reply, Nicole said, “It was definitely bad timing. Michael and I both know that had we tried to have a child and get married in the previous time we were together, it probably would not have ended pretty. We both had a lot of growing up to do. We both had a lot of learning about ourselves to do. I don’t think you can be in a good relationship unless you love yourself to the fullest and you want to help the other person become a better person. We definitely needed that time apart to recognize that about ourselves and to appreciate one another.”

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How Michael and Nicole got back together?

In 2007, Michael first noticed Nicole at the ESPYs. On occasion, Nicole served as Michael’s athletic guide for the event. However, at that time, she didn’t like Michael. But with time, they subsequently became aware of their shared passions. Eventually, Michael and Nicole started dating each other.

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However, the couple split up in late 2011 due to Phelps’ swimming obligations and the approaching Olympics. They reconciled the following year but broke up once more before the 2012 London Olympics. When Michael retired in 2012, he met Nicole, who fueled his passion for love. After this, their bond became more potent, and the couple married. 

WATCH THIS STORYResurfaced video shows Michael Phelps Race of the century with Ian Thorpe, Pieter Van Den Hoogenband’s at 2004 Athens Olympics

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Written by:

Ishani Yadav

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Ishani Yadav is a US Sports author for EssentiallySports. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Journalism from the University of Delhi. Ishani spent her childhood playing baseball and badminton, which led to her passion for sports.
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Edited by:

Simar Singh Wadhwa