“I Told Him I’d Kill Him”: Michael Phelps’ Dad Gave Him a Cold Warning When He Revealed His Career Prospects to Him

There is no need for an introduction of Michael Phelps, the Olympic athlete who is now retired. The American swimmer is remembered for his performances in 2004 and 2008, where he made his fans proud by winning eight medals. His remarkable journey held him achieve the status of GOAT.

The legendary swimmer had mentioned some moments of his life in his biography. In 2004, Phelps published his autobiography, entitled “Beneath the Surface.” From time to time, it has been seen that he shared a rough bond with his father, Fred Phelps. However, Fred had some different views on his career.

Michael Phelps’ father’s Point of View

According to the Baltimore Sun, his father had distinct ideas about his son. Once, he stated the moment when Phelps got sick and mentioned he still cared for his son even if he lived with his mother. In addition, he praised Debbie for her parenting skills.

But his father’s perspective on his career was different. He stated, “I remember when he was young and got so sick, some kind of blood virus—104 temperature. I threw him in the police car and got him to the hospital. He had a hernia when he was 2. I remember he come out of that hospital room, and the first thing he did was crawl in my lap and snuggle up. Who was there when he won the home-run derby? The old man. He punched it! Boom! Launched it! Move over, McGwire! You got Phelps coming in!”

READ MORE: “It’s Like I Didn’t Exist”: Michael Phelps’ Dad Once Confessed He Felt Undervalued in His Son’s GOAT Journey

Further, he said some harsh words, but not intentionally. He said, “I taught him a firm handshake, none of this bag of mush. He told me when he was young, He wanted to be a state trooper. I told him I’d kill him – not in those words, you know.” When Phelps was just nine years old, his parents got divorced. Since then, his mother has raised him and his two elder sisters.

The rough bond of the Fred & Michael duo

The greatest of all time, swimmer Michael’s mother, Mrs. Debbie Phelps, was frequently recognized for raising the Olympic star and supporting her son. She has been with him during tough times, like his depression or retirement in 2012. But seeing his mother’s love during his victories, Fred feels left out. He once stated how he is missing a major part of his life.

In some interviews, Michael has called his coach Bob Bowman a father figure in his life. Bob is often seen playing with Michale’s three sons.

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