“I Got My Lanes Mixed Up”: Michael Phelps’ Winning Moment Was Ruined by a TV Announcer Who Capped Ryan Lochte the Winner

Michael Phelps is a dominant name in the world of swimming. The GOAT of swimming, Phelps’ records have remained unbroken till date. Having earned 23 gold medals, the swimming maestro is known as the “Flying Fish.” The exceptional skills that Phelps displays inside water are inspiring.

Such is his speed that even commentators find it difficult to keep pace with him. In an unlikely turn of events, the CBC announcer and commentator, Elliotte Friedman, ended up confusing ace swimmer, Ryan Lochte, for Michael Phelps.

The big goof up during the event

Things turned awkward during the 200M individual medley, when commentator Elliotte got confused between Ryan and Michael. Mistaking the two, Elliotte said, “Phelps doesn’t look like he has this one in him!” During the entire race, Elliotte thought Michael to be Ryan.

The match was crucial for Phelps because he was eyeing his fourth consecutive title in the 200m individual medley. Securing the lead, Phelps would eventually won his 22nd gold medal. But not realizing his mistake, Elliotte added, “Phelps might not even make the podium!”

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Elliotte realized his big goof up only when the visuals showed Phelps winning the race. Quickly correcting his human error, Elliotte apologized. He said, “I apologize; I got my lanes mixed up.” Announcing the winner, the latter announced, “Phelps, with the gold.”

Seeking forgiveness, Elliotte later took to Twitter to apologize. As for Phelps, he secured his fourth win, and Ryan came fourth in the race.

The many feats of Michael Phelps

Phelps significantly won 28 medals in his swimming career. Michaels’ affair with swimming started at the tender age of seven.

In an astonishing winning streak, Phelps turned heads when he secured seven gold medals in the 2007 World Championships in Melbourne. Following his sister’s footsteps, Phelps’ big break in his career came, when he scored eight gold medals in the Beijing 2008 Olympics. He broke Mark Spitz’s seven gold medals which he bagged in the historic 1972 Munich Olympics.

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Having officially retired from swimming, Michael now loves to spend time with his family and friends.