“My Cheeks Hurt”- Nicole Johnson and Michael Phelps Look as Bright as the Sun at the Historical Kentucky Derby Event

The American swimming legend Michael Phelps is considered to be one of the greatest athletes of all time, and his retirement has done little to diminish his popularity. Recently, the olympian, with his wife, Nicole Johnson Phelps, attended the 148th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on May 7 in Louisville, Kentucky.

The 2022 Kentucky Derby

The 2022 Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve starred 20 horses on May 7th in Louisville, Kentucky. In a recent interview, Nicole revealed that it was her first time attending the Derby, while Michael Phelps had a one-time prior experience. Watching matches came naturally to her as she watched her husband compete in multiple swimming competitions. The Derby was yet another race for her.

In a post made by Nicole Phelps on Instagram, she expressed how much the couple enjoyed the event. We can see their faces bright and happy, surrounded by their friends. “Day 2… Did not disappoint 🐎 “my cheeks hurt” from laughing so much. I love and adore everyone in these pics 🥰,” the caption said.

The couple also revealed they had an “inside scoop” on the bets, but primarily, they were there to enjoy the company. There were a slew of celebrities in the audience, like rapper Jack Harlow, Miss USA Elle Smith, singer Joey Fatone, actress Melissa Joan Hart, and singer Amanda Lee. Even former President Donald Trump was in attendance. The Phelps pair posted pictures with their friends.

READ MORE: “Moments I’ll Never Forget”- Michael Phelps Dedicates His Legendary Swimming Career to Michael Jordan

The 148th running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs was won by Rich Strike, with Sonny Leon aboard, in a major upset, entering the race at 80-1 odds. The winner’s purse was 1.86 million dollars.

Michael Phelps and Nicole Johnson Phelps

Nicole and Michael Phelps are certainly ‘couple goals’. Ever since the legendary swimmer’s retirement in 2016, Phelps has focused primarily on his family. Through 28 Olympic medals and countless world records, even his mental health issues, his wife has stood beside him through all the highs and lows in his life. They are proud parents to three sons, Boomer, Beckett, and Maverick Phelps.

Just a couple of days ago, the couple celebrated the 6th birthday of their first-born son, Boomer. Nicole and Michael got married back in 2016 and dated on and off for quite a while before their engagement.
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Now, Phelps is not only the most decorated athlete but also a father of three with a beautiful family.