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"I was pretty disappointed to see the U.S. swimming results"- Michael Phelps opens up on his thoughts on the team's performance at the Paris Olympics

Modified Aug 08, 2024 08:09 GMT

Michael Phelps expressed his disappointment in the U.S. swimming team's performance at the Paris Olympics. The legendary swimmer spoke about bringing about changes as the rest of the world is 'catching up' to the dominance established by Team USA in the sport.

American athletes had a slow start in the Paris Olympics. However, the team caught their momentum in the later stages of the swimming events. They won a total of 28 medals which included eight gold, 13 silver, and seven bronze medals.

The swimming events featured some great individual performances from athletes like Bobby Finke and Gretchen Walsh. The women's 4x100 medley relay team of Team USA which included Lilly King, Torri Huske, Gretchen Walsh, and Regan Smith broke the world record to win the gold in a thrilling contest.

Michael Phelps spoke about the swimming team's performance and expressed his disappointment and said (via Swimnerds on X):

"For me as a whole, I was pretty disappointed to see the U.S. Swimming results. Obviously, there were a few standout swims and those you have to recognize. Bobby Finke swimming that last night was unbelievable. I mean, I have chills right now talking about that. That was one of the greatest swims in the Olympics, in my opinion. Being able to break that world record in the matter that he did it. Just taking it out, challenging the other guys just to make a move. He was prepared. Hopefully the other athletes are more prepared going to 2028."

"For me, one of the things that I have always said over the last couple of years is the rest of the world is catching up, right? You know, I think that a lot of the things that we have done as a country for so long, the other people are catching up. They are doing the same thing. Right, so hopefully we are able to make that transition leading into 2028," he added.

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Michael Phelps on making a comeback to competitive swimming

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Michael Phelps attended NBC's press meet at the Paris Olympics. The most decorated Olympian of all time who bid adieu to the sport in 2016, discussed making a comeback in competitive swimming and said:

"I know at my old age – I say 'old age': I’ll be 39 this year – it’ll take five years for me to really get back. You know, I think the whole process of physically and mentally preparing for an Olympic Games is challenging. So, for me to be able to give myself the best chance to be able to perform how I would want to, it would take five years."

After being in the sport for a span of four Olympic Games and winning numerous accolades throughout his career despite facing several adversities, Michael Phelps stands as an inspiration for generations to come.