Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte are two of the most prolific swimmers team USA has ever produced. While the world always saw them as rivals, their relationship goes beyond competing in the pool. They were rivals/friends who pushed each other to be better. Although Phelps surpasses every athlete in terms of medal count, Lochte is just a bit behind him in the sport of swimming.

However, amidst their bromance and winning countless relays together was a moment when Michael Phelps left his swimming buddy stranded. It caught Lochte off guard since the 23-time Olympic gold medalist promised to be there for him in time of need.

Michael Phelps once left Ryan Lochte stranded

The gas station robbery controversy in Rio was definitely the darkest phase in Ryan Lochte’s life. “In my eyes, I was the most hated person ever,” is what he remembers from the entire incident that left a blot on his illustrious career. The 12-time-Olympic medalist recalls Michael Phelps saying, “Yeah, sure. I’m here to help,” and advising him to toughen up. 

However, Lochte further revealed that when he reached out to Phelps for help, he wasn’t very responsive. He said, “But he didn’t call me. I was like, ‘Hey, can you please call me? Let me know, I need help.’ That never really happened.”

Although it’s tough to be left stranded like that, Lochte understood Phelps’ situation as well. Therefore, he added, “He’s busy. He has his own life. He has a kid. So it’s gotta be hard, you know?”

READ MORE- Defeating Arnold Schwarzenegger, Michael Phelps Became Fittest Man of All Time by Using a Simple Analogy

What happened with Lochte at the Rio?

US swimming star Lochte generated international controversy when he revealed that some armed men robbed him and three other US swimmers in Rio. However, after Brazilian authorities investigated the matter, it came to light that Lochte and other athletes were the actual culprits. They misbehaved with security guards at the gas station and vandalized the property.

Later, they also tried to bribe the guards to suppress the matter. Though after the investigation, Ryan received a suspension for 10 months from the U.S. Olympic Committee and USA Swimming. Furthermore, he lost four major sponsorship deals. However, Ryan Lochte took full responsibility for his acts and apologized to everyone for this improper behavior.

WATCH THIS STORY- When Olympic Legends Usain Bolt, Michael Phelps, Serena Williams, and Other Won Their First Gold Medals