“I Know My Son”: Michael Phelps’ Mother Still Believed in Her Son’s ‘Values’ and ‘Integrity’ Even After His Public Misdemeanor in 2009

Mothers have an unwavering affection for their children and are always willing to do everything possible to support them. Similarly, from time to time, Michael Phelps’ mother has showcased her love for him while cheering him during competitions. However, at the beginning of Michael’s career, her mother was harsh on him.

Albeit, when it comes to Phelps’ alcohol addiction and his inappropriate behavior, his mother, Debbie Phelps, defended him.

Mother defending Michael Phelps

During an interview with CNN, Michael’s mother was questioned about his behavior. Larry king asked her, “When the DJ started playing MIA’s ‘Paper Planes,’ he got up, started dancing like a loon, and kept on yelling ‘shots.’ Phelps definitely had enough alcohol on hand for several four round. He ordered four bottles of Vodka.”

He also added, “Is this tough for a mother? How do you react?” In reply, Debbie talked about her son’s value and said, “It’s one thing that I learn at a very early age is I don’t get caught up in gossip columns. I know my son. He has great values, lots of integrity. That’s what I think about that.”

READ MORE: Michael Phelps Never Wishes to Repeat Same Experiences With His Sons: “There Are Some Bad Childhood Memories of My Father”

The 28-time Olympic gold winner, Michael Phelps, also appeared in several news portals. During that time, he opened up about his struggles with alcoholism, his time in rehab, and his preparation for the Olympics.

Phelps fighting alcoholism

Phelps attended a rehab center shortly after pleading guilty to the DUI offense. Meanwhile, he was also enlisted to participate in a 45-day inpatient program there. After struggling a lot, Michael enrolled himself in Alcoholics Anonymous to maintain his sober status after spending time in rehab. This became a severe turning point in Michael’s life. After winning a record-breaking eight gold medals at the Beijing Olympics, Michael Phelps came under fire in 2009. The picture of him using a bong to smoke marijuana spread like a fire on the internet.

During Rio Olympics, he again proved his worth while winning five gold medals in swimming. After Rio Olympics, Phelps bid adieu to swimming. Since then, he has spent time with his wife, Nicole Johnson, and their three sons. In addition, his fans love him for playing golf with dedication after his swimming career. To this date, his legendary status is unachieved.

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