?The Moment That Probably Saved My Life?- Michael Phelps Explains His Thoughts Behind a 2015 Article That Inspired a New NFT Collection

In 2015, 28-time Olympic medalist Michael Phelps came out in front of the world to reveal he struggled with anxiety and depression and even contemplated committing suicide. But rehab helped Michael gain the correct perspective and regain control of his life. Seven years later, the article has led to a revolutionary new move in the digital era. It serves as the basis of the launch of a series of NFT covers to commemorate the emotional occasion.

In an interview about the same, Phelps also opened up on his thoughts behind the decision to reveal the issues he faced.

Michael Phelps felt it was the perfect setting for him to reveal his struggles

The world knows?Michael Phelps?as the?swimming?GOAT. Michael won every competition he participated in and seemingly set a record with every race he would win. But not all are familiar with the personal battles he had to face. In 2015, A brave Phelps paired up with?Sports Illustrated?for an interview that would change the course of history. Phelps revealed his mental health issues, which were so grave that he even contemplated suicide at one stage.

No one knew what to expect from the interview, as the watershed moment was an unprecedented turn. And once it came out, the article sent shockwaves throughout the globe. In a recent interview, Phelps once again talked about THAT interview as he expressed his thoughts behind choosing it as the appropriate moment to reveal the truth.

READ MORE: ?Cried for a Week?: Swimming Goat Michael Phelps Explains His Life-Changing Time at a Rehabilitation Center

He said, “I still don?t know why at that very moment I just let it all out.” Phelps added, “For whatever reason, the time and place were perfect, and it was like, ‘I am ready. Buckle up.’ Looking back, that is the moment that probably saved my life ? being able to let that stuff out that I was compartmentalizing for decades.”

The new digital cover collection puts a modern twist on the collectible trend from the years gone by. It sees action figures reimagined for Michael’s ninth appearance on the SI cover. Phelps will also donate all the money he receives to the Michael Phelps Foundation ? the charity he established in 2008.

WATCH THIS STORY: ?Lindsey Vonn, Cody Simpson, Chandler Parsons, and the Entire Sports World Mourns the Loss of Michael Phelps? Father

Michael considers the 2015 interview as one of the most important moments of his life. And the initiative by SI furthers Phelps’ cause. He said,?“Mental health is so important to me, and this will help us with what we?re trying to do to lower the stigma around mental health and get people the help and the care they need.”

Remember, contacting mhanational.org?is always an option for those looking for help.