If you would ask Michael Phelps, one of the greatest swimmers of all time, about his secret to success and glory, he would probably say his family had a significant role in it. Perhaps the family is what lies at the core of most individuals’ lives. However, the relationship you have with each member is likely to be different. Here’s what Phelps has to say about his relationship with his father, Fred Phelps.

With three amazing sons and a loving wife, Michael Phelps has an ideal family now. While growing up, his closest friends and mentor were his two older sisters, and it was because of them that he entered swimming. Furthermore, his mother was always there as well. Be it training or international competitions, she was always watching over her champion son. However, his relationship with his dad was not as great as the rest of his family members.

Michael Phelps talks about his relationship with his dad

Phelps’ parents broke up when he was nine, and their divorce meant he can’t be with both of them. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Phelps said, “For me, not having a father always there was hard. I had Bob [Bowman], and I had Peter [Carlisle], these guys who acted as father figures. But deep down, inside, it was hard.”

However, even as a child, Michael Phelps accepted everything and focused on what he could control and not on what he could not. He further added, “Is my family perfect? Far from it. My parents had issues where they thought it was healthy to split. It wasn’t ideal. It wasn’t easy. But what we went through as kids made us as strong as we are.”

Trending

Dale Jr Unmasks Teresa Earnhardt’s Refusal to Sell Him His Late Father’s Prized Possession That Forced Relocation Move

April 17, 2024 12:29 PM EDT

Jimmie Johnson “Racing With One Arm Tied Behind His Back,” Claims Dale Jr as He Trashes Chase Elliott’s Sufficient Practice Rant

April 17, 2024 07:02 AM EDT

Shaq Makes Big Claim That Can End LeBron James’ Future With Lakers After Nuggets Series

April 17, 2024 06:48 PM EDT

After Team USA’s Defence for Nike, Sha’Carri Richardson and Athing Mu Flaunting Different Olympic Outfits Resurfaces

April 16, 2024 08:22 PM EDT

Masters Horror Lands Jon Rahm & Co in Deep Trouble as Stubborn Greg Norman Refuses to Compromise

April 15, 2024 07:45 PM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest Swimming stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

How Does Michael Phelps’ Physical Superiority Aspect Factor into the Recent Trans Athletes’ Debate?

Hard times raise strong men

As a child, the swimming legend went through multiple tough days. However, instead of whining about it, he channelized his energy into swimming and became the best in the sport.

Perhaps the phrase ‘hard times raise strong men’ fits perfectly on swimming legend Michael Phelps.

WATCH THIS STORY- Why Did Michael Phelps Name His Son ‘Boomer’?