38-year-old Michael Phelps is widely known for his unbeatable stint in the Olympics for 20 years, earning 23 Golds. However, no one knew about the mental health problems he faced as an athlete. After he suffered from ‘post-Olympics depression‘, the legendary swimmer confided in certain close friends. One of those close friends surprisingly turned out to be NBA great Charles Barkley, whose friendship Phelps defined as “life-changing“. Isn’t it a little odd that a swimming icon has close ties with someone who is 22 years his senior, that too from the basketball world?

Let’s take a look at this random, yet wholesome friendship.

Michael Phelps credits Charles Barkley for helping with his mental struggles

The US Open this year has had some eye-opening moments that have entertained the fans. Well, we are not speaking about the matches alone here. The tournament committee decided to educate the ardent sports buffs on the dark side of going pro as well. The main focus was the mental health problems and to address this serious issue, Olympic sensation Michael Phelps was roped in.

Phelps spoke about the problems he faced as an athlete. You may think it’s the Olympics pressure, social media abuse, etc. However, Phelps was going through a post-Olympics depression, which reached a fever pitch in 2014, where he did not want to be alive. Let’s not forget that he won 6 medals, 4 Golds, and 2 Silvers just two years earlier at the London Olympics. 

How did the 38-year-old come out of this? As per Insider, first, he revealed that he accepted the vulnerability. Second, yet the most important, Phelps added that he had a few friends who always checked up on him. 

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One of them was none other than “Chuck Barkley”. Phelps mentioned that he and Barkley “go back and forth randomly at the most awkward hours,” and that they check on each other. Phelps further said, “He’s just always checking in on me. I have a few friends like that.” He stated that he could relax when people check in on him, because “you don’t feel alone in that moment.“

Why did Michael Phelps open up about it now? 

Athletes in this modern generation succumb to fans’ wrath or pressure, which can lead to depression as well. Phelps, who has first-hand experience, joined hands with Tennis star Naomi Osaka to address the youngsters. 

Phelps revealed his no.1 mission right now is to “save a life” by throwing light and sharing a few tips on mental struggles. Looks like he has done his job, along with Osaka.

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What are your thoughts about Barkley and Phelps’ friendship? Share your take in the comments below.