Despite His Dark Times, Michael Phelps, Doesn’t Want to Restrict Kids From Taking Forward His Legacy: “I Don’t Ever Want to Force Them”

Michael Phelps is a man known for accomplishing unprecedented records. When he went to the 2008 Beijing Olympics, no one thought that it was possible to win eight gold medals out of 8 events. But Phelps did it. No one ever dreamed of winning 28 medals at the Olympics, but Michael made it a reality. Having won everything there was for him to win, Phelps retired as the undisputed GOAT of the swimming world.

The ‘Baltimore Bullet’ has since been spending time with his family, especially his three sons. The swimmer aims to spend most of his time being a good father to them and see them grow into wonderful human beings. But what are Phelps’ plans for them in the future?

Michael Phelps talks about his sons’ future

Hailing from the family of Michael Phelps, one cannot help but wonder if any of his children would take after Phelps reigns in swimming. With three wonderful kids, at least one of them may end up in the sport. But is that what Michael wants or is pushing for?

During an interview, Phelps opened up on whether he wanted his children to take up swimming or not. He said, “If they want to be a swimmer, that’s fine. But I don’t ever want to force them to do something.” Adding to his statement, Phelps also mentioned how he considers himself lucky to have found swimming in his childhood. Michael said, “I was very fortunate as a kid growing up to find swimming and find a sport that I loved and that allowed me to take this passion where I did. And, you know, I just hope that they’re able to find that, whatever ‘that’ is.”

READ MORE: “Michael and I Were at Loss’’: Michael Phelps’ Wife Revealed Parental Setback They Faced With Their 4-Year-Old Son

Incidentally, Michael’s oldest son, Boomer, is the only one of his sons to have watched their father compete live. Although he won’t remember it, Boomer was present at the arena during the 2016 Rio Olympics, where Michael took center stage for the last time. Phelps marked the ending of a glorious career with a gold medal in the 4x100m medley relay. An emotional Phelps waved goodbye to the crowd before embracing the support of his family and kissing his son.

Boomer’s love for swimming

The eldest of Michael’s sons to watch him perform live may also be the one that takes up his reigns. The swimmer once revealed his son’s love for swimming.

Michael Phelps posted a video of his son enjoying his time in the pool. The young child showed signs of inheriting his father’s swimming skills with his aquatic prowess. Discussing the same, Phelps said, “It’s fun for a dad watching Boomer really be relaxed in the water but also be able to kick.” At such a young age, Boomer has also started reading and mimicking his father’s techniques. “With Booms in the water as much as he is, he’s definitely turning into a little pool rat, like I once was. It’s pretty wild; Boomer will basically mimic butterfly, ask me to do it, and then go sit down and absolutely go crazy when I swim.”

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No matter what happens, it will be tough to fill Michael’s shoes. If his sons were to pursue a career in the sport, they would have to face added pressure and expectations that come with the ‘Phelps’ name.