?Prefer to Stay in My Own Lane?: Michael Phelps, Who Bagged 28 Olympic Medals for Swimming, Names His Biggest Aquatic Fear

In the world of sports, certain individuals achieve a level of greatness that seems almost unattainable. One such legend is Michael Phelps, the American former competitive swimmer who holds an astonishing record of 28 Olympic medals and is the most decorated Olympian in history.

His athletic dominance in the pool has earned him the name ‘Flying Fish’. However, even the most exceptional champions harbor hidden fears, and Phelps recently hinted at a fear that might surprise his admirers.

Phelps’ journey: From a childhood fear of water to later dominating the pool

Michael Phelps had to deal with a tough challenge from a young age, which seemed ironic for someone who would later rule the water. He had a fear of the water as a child, especially the fear of getting his face wet. He was apprehensive about diving into the water’s depths, making it seem like an impossible task for a future swimming legend. But for the young Phelps, fate had other ideas.

Overcoming his childhood fears, Michael Phelps found solace and focus through swimming. He used the water’s embrace to overcome attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and to hone his skills, making him the unstoppable force that took the world by storm in the subsequent Olympic Games. However, recently, a new fear has surfaced in the life of this aquatic legend.

Michael Phelps reveals his previously unknown fear

Recently, the world learned of Michael Phelps’ aversion to heights. He reposted a conversation with Canadian high diver Molly Carlson on his Instagram stories. Carlson took to social media, sharing a selfie with the swimming legend and recounting a conversation they had. In the captivating Instagram story, she teased Phelps with a daring question, “Would you ever try high diving?”. With his charm and wit, she stated Phelps responded by saying, “I prefer to stay in my own lane“. The clever wordplay drew a chuckle from followers, but it was Phelps’ repost that truly stirred curiosity.

Re-sharing Carlson’s story on his own Instagram, he playfully declared, “Uh yep, I don’t do heights,” accompanied by a shocked emoji and laughing faces. Molly Carlson is a high diver from Canada competing at World Aquatic Championships 2023 in Japan. She continues to showcase her talents on a global stage. Michael Phelps himself also graces the events at Fukuoka, Japan. In a symbolic moment, Phelps was spotted presenting the Gold Medal to the remarkable Leon Marchand. The 21-year-old sensation shattered one of Michael Phelps’ last remaining records, claiming the top spot in the men’s 400 meters individual medley.

Read more: Years After Juggling Between Bronze and Silvers, 21-Year-Old Us Swimming Prodigy Signs Off Worlds With a Historic Win

This passing of the torch from one aquatic icon to another marks a momentous occasion in the sport. From overcoming his fear of water as a child, advocating for mental health awareness, and encouraging athletes like Marchand and Carlson, Michael Phelps continues to inspire generations.

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