With Michael Phelps Bagging 23 Olympic Golds, Swimming Icon Brendan Hansen Reflects on the “Tidal Wave of Emotions”

In the world of swimming, Team USA has witnessed the emergence of true titans in the pool who have made America proud on a global scale. Among the array of stars, Brendan Hansen has stood out, with six Olympic medals and former world records in both the 100-meter and 200-meter breaststroke events. His journey has taken him through three Summer Olympic Games, from 2004 to 2012, where he claimed the coveted gold on Team USA’s medley relays.

Notably, Hansen’s career overlapped with the debut of Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian and swimmer in history. Their partnership in the pool forged moments of historic significance. Years after his final run at the 2012 Olympics, Hansen has opened up about the awe-inspiring surge of Olympic glory brought by the Baltimore Bullet, Michael Phelps himself.

Brendan Hansen’s reaction to Michael Phelps’ stellar breakout in 2008

During an insightful discussion on the “Inside with Brett Hawke” podcast, Brendan Hansen shared candidly about his swimming career and his Olympic experiences. A moment stood out when Brett Hawke asked Hansen about Michael Phelps’ remarkable dominance at the 2008 Olympics and his perspective as a teammate. Hansen shared that the thrilling atmosphere surrounding Phelps was felt at the 2008 Olympic trials and training camp, where he showed his supremacy in the pool. Recounting his memories, Hansen spoke about the remarkable synergy between Phelps and his coach, Bob Bowman, during the training camp, which bolstered Phelps’ confidence.

He shared a standout moment when Phelps and his teammates clinched victory in the 4×100 free relay, beating the formidable French team. Brendan Hansen remarked, “I’m not even gonna say wave; I’m gonna say like a full-blown tidal wave of emotions, to where you didn’t even have to be a US citizen to be like, ‘That was amazing,’ you know? “ As we reflect on these words, let us see what Hansen’s thoughts were about Michael Phelps’ leadership at the 2008 Beijing Olympics despite being a veteran.

What he thought about Phelps’ leadership despite being his senior

In the interview with Brett Hawke, Brendan Hansen reflected on the leadership qualities he observed in Phelps during the 2008 relay event when they first raced together as part of the U.S. team in the 4×100-meter medley relay. He noted how Phelps took charge and motivated the team before the race.

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Despite Phelps’ introverted nature, Hansen was impressed by Phelps’ ability to rally the team and lead them to victory. He said, “I really saw Michael there for the first time really become the leader that he could be on the pool deck.” Looking back at Hansen’s words, it’s clear how much respect and teamwork are valued in Team USA, even with Phelps being younger than some. What’s your take on this heartfelt interview? Share your thoughts below!

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