“It’s a Sign of Weakness”: An Elderly Man Once ‘Triggered’ Michael Phelps on Flight With a Silly Comment

Michael Phelps is a record-setting Olympian. The 23-time gold medalist is widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes ever. However, the most decorated Olympian is also passionate about better mental health. Phelps has been working for years to spread awareness about mental health issues.

So when an elderly man made a mean comment about people with mental health issues, Micael nearly lost his cool. In a recent interview, the Olympic gold medalist explained what had happened.

An unpleasant conversation for Micheal Phelps

In October, Michael Phelps had interviewed with Sports Illustrated. The interviewer asked the Baltimore Bullet, “Do you have any misgivings about the way the conversation around mental health has evolved? Is there anything that keeps you up at night?”. Phelps said he had a story that would be a great example. “It drives me every single day.”, he added.

“This guy said it to me on a plane [three or four months ago]… that when somebody talks about their mental health, it’s a sign of weakness. This guy was 65, 70 years old.” said the ‘Baltimore Bullet’. Phelps said the man’s statement immediately made him uncomfortable. Instead of reacting explosively, Phelps refused to take the conversation any further.

“You triggered me and I’m not really sure what’s going to come out of my mouth next.”, the Olympic legend told the elderly man. Phelps informed that he is “extremely passionate,” about mental health and has actively been trying to change the perception of the masses. “I feel like if you are that way, then naturally you’re always going to be up at night.”, he said.

READ MORE: Swimming Legend Michael Phelps Wants Son to Follow His Legacy but Not in the Pool

After retiring from competitive swimming, the Olympic medalist has dedicated himself to spreading awareness about Mental Health. The Michael Phelps Foundation promoted both physical and mental health. The foundation works with athletes, as well as everyone willing to seek help. Phelps also regularly attends seminars and discourses on mental health awareness.

Simone Biles has joined Michael Phelps in his crusade

Michael Phelps has been advocating for better mental health since 2015. Michael informed he wasn’t in the right state, mentally, to speak out during his career. During the same interview, Phelps revealed that U.S Olympic and Paralympic Committee did “nothing at all” for mental health when he was competing. However, lately Olympians in the prime of their competitive careers have been vocal about mental health issues, one of them being the prolific gymnast, Simone Biles. Phelps had even praised Simone Biles for her bravery during the 2021 Olympics.

Biles withdrew during Tokyo 2021 and has been actively advocating for mental well-being since. While she’s part of Phelps’ crusade, the swimmer also said, “we need more help.”

Watch this story – Here Are Exclusive Features of Michael Phelps’ Swim Spa – From Foot Therapy to Stress Reliever

Qualities of Profound passion and unparalleled devotion have always been characteristic of Micheal Phelps. Phelps’ passion and discipline made him the most decorated olympian. It is indubitable that the swimmer would replicate this success in his advocacy campaigns for this noble cause.