“Swimmer’s Path Isn’t Always an Olympics Path” Michael Phelps’ Mother Always Knew the Risk Involved With Her Children’s Dreams

Michael Phelps established unparallel dominance as a swimmer. Intending to accomplish something which was never been done before, Michael was relentless in his effort to achieve greatness. He was successful in his mission and became the most decorated Olympian by winning 28 Olympic medals.

Despite facing multiple struggles during his career, he emerged victorious. Michael began swimming, following up on his sisters. From the tender age of 7, he had a fierce competitive spirit. It became very evident in his years as an amateur swimmer.

Michael’s mother weighs in on the risk involved

Ever since Michael started swimming, he wanted to get into the competitive aspect of the game. As a junior, Michael set many records, some of which are still valid to date. His potential was first witnessed when he set the National record in the 100 m butterfly event for the Under 10 age group category. However, unfathomable success in the junior levels does not guarantee an outstanding professional career, but his mother, Ms. Debbie Phelps, always believed in him. She also once opened up on the risks involved in Michael’s becoming a professional swimmer.

His mother, Debbie, opened up about how everybody is destined for a different path. It is not always essential that an athlete would compete in the Olympics. “A swimmer’s path isn’t always an Olympics path, “she said.

DIVE DEEPER: “We’re a Little Phelps’d Out”: Despite Winning Five Golds, Michael Phelps Lost an Out of-Pool Battle to Fellow American Swimmer at Rio Olympics

Furthermore, opening up on the topic, she said, “There are many paths to take. Hilary was a Division I swimmer. Whitney was swimming at age 14 in Rome. And Michael is … well, he’s Michael. “She revealed how his sisters had different paths as swimmers in terms of their accomplishments, whereas Michael excelled magnificently.

Michael Phelps and his relationship with his mother

Michael Phelps was the youngest of three siblings. He had two elder sisters, and both were swimmers. They made him join them in the pool. Michael’s parents parted ways when he was nine years old. His mother raised him alone and stood there with him through thick and thin. Phelps revealed in an interview that he did not have any contact with his father for over 20 years. Michael credited his mother for his success. For him, the support and encouragement his mother provided despite harsh conditions meant a lot.

His mother would attend all his competitions and cheer for him from the sidelines. Her presence motivated him a lot to excel. Before starting the race, Phelps recalled looking up at the stands to get an instant motivation to push through. The legendary swimmer called himself ‘ a mama’s boy’ in an interview with Kevin Hart and Snoop Dogg. Debbie always extended her support to Michael, no matter the situation.

WATCH THIS STORY: Resurfaced video shows Michael Phelps Race of the century with Ian Thorpe, Pieter Van Den Hoogenband’s at 2004 Athens Olympics