Michael Phelps? Agent Refused Him to Get a Picture With Another Legend Despite a $1 Million Deal With Speedo to Save His Brand in 2012

The age of social media is a boon and bane. While it made the world more connected, it also opened the doorway for antagonism. The tussle is real, so one needs to use the platform more judiciously. As a sports personality, one also has to take care of the image created in public. As any wrong interpretation of words or pictures can come hefty. Thus, to help Michael Phelps in his endeavors, his agent, Peter Carlisle, was always present.

Back in 2012, when Peter sat for a talk at the Isenberg School of Management in Amherst, Mass program, he had a lot to say. Peter also spoke about his reasons as to why he refused Michael to be photographed with Mark Spitz.

Michael’s agent had a valid reason?

As Michael’s agent, Peter endeavored to ensure Michael found the right frame. Thus, when he was asked about why he took such a step when Speedo was offering $1 million, his answer was clear. He remarked, “First of all, I wanted Michael to have his own brand, and we certainly generated awareness through the bonus.”

Carlisle added,?“my concern at the time was we weren’t looking for that or nothing.”?Interacting with others, he clarified that they “didn’t?want to be defined by that.”?Thus, looking at the border picture, he said that he “had to resist the urge to put Michael and Mark together, and there were a lot of people calling.”?The step, as he recalled, “was difficult”?but was necessary for the Phelps’ image.

Read More: Ahead of Christmas, Michael Phelps’ Wife Makes an Expensive Request to Her Millionaire Husband.

Michael and Carlisle have known each other for years. Apart from assisting Phelps, Peter has also worked with other U.S. athletes. With his work, he has earned his name as a sports agent.

Michael Phelps showed his trust in Carlisle when he was just 16 years old

In 2002, when Phelps was just 16 years old, he?formally announced?that Peter Carlisle of Octagon would be assisting him. He informed him that he would handle his marketing, endorsement, and business affairs. The two have been associated with each other since then.

Apart from handling Michael Phelps, Carlisle had also handled big names like Simone Biles. Before starting his own agency, Carlise worked as a corporate lawyer. Through thick and thin, he has been connected with Phelps since the beginning of his career. Apart from being professionally connected, the two are great friends.

Watch This Story: From Subway to Under Armour- Here Are Michael Phelps’ Famous Endorsement Deals.