Michael Phelps Struggled Through the Same Medical Condition as Shaquille O’Neal and Simone Biles – “ I Could Never..”

Do you think being one of the best athletes in the world of sports makes them invincible? How about Simone Biles or Michael Phelps? Do you think they are bulletproof to feelings? Sadly, even the greatest athletes like them had their struggles while growing up.

When people hear the name Michael Phelps, all they see is 23 Olympic gold medals, 39 international world records, and one of the best swimmers in the world. However, outside of his extraordinary swimming career, he is yet another human being coursing through everyday life challenges and obstacles like the rest of us.

Michael Phelps suffered from ADHD as a child

Perhaps being Michael Phelps is not as fancy as it seems. As a child, the swimming legend suffered from ADHD. He said, “Growing up, I was someone who was constantly bouncing off the walls — I could never sit still.” Coincidentally, it’s the same problem gymnastics GOAT Simone Biles, and NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal had to go through as well.

However, if it proves anything, perhaps it is that obstacles really bring out the best in you. Though the challenges Phelps faced as a child are something everyone would seek to avoid. While talking about the experience with ADHD, Phelps said, “I had a teacher tell me that I would never amount to anything and I would never be successful.”

It’s good to see that not someone else’s opinion decided his fate, and he proved all the doubters wrong.

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How did Phelps tackle it?

Well, realizing that he has not been alone in his problem was a major relief for the swimming champion. Furthermore, he added, “I think the biggest thing for me, once I found that it was okay to talk to someone and seek help, I think that’s something that has changed my life forever.” 

Perhaps the best way to get rid of your problems is to face them. That’s what Phelps did and successfully became one of the greatest athletes the world has ever seen.

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