Michael Phelps, widely recognized as a sporting legend, has transcended his achievements in the pool to embrace a diverse range of roles and pursuits. Revered as the “G.O.A.T.,” Phelps has evolved beyond his competitive swimming days, venturing into motivational speaking and serving as a mental game consultant for fellow star athletes. Beyond these professional endeavors, Phelps embraces the challenges of being an enthusiastic golfer and a dedicated father to four boys.
Phelps, known for his exceptional ability to manage various aspects of his life seamlessly, has recently provided insights into his encounter with an American collegiate and professional basketball player. This player is widely hailed as one of the greatest all-around in basketball history. When probed about this prominent figure, Phelps responded with a reply that could only be described as savage. This added another intriguing layer to his multifaceted persona.
Michael Phelps’s unforgettable round with MJ
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In a recent interview with golf.com, Michael Phelps shared intriguing details about Michael Jordan. Reflecting on their game together at Jordan’s charity event at Aria, Phelps marvelled at Jordan’s dedication. Jordan played twice a day and maintained an impressive performance. Phelps vividly recalled a practice round where Jordan posted scores of 72-69 in the NBA. However, the next day, Phelps found himself and Mario Lemieux, a Canadian former professional ice hockey player, outplaying Jordan. The intensity of Jordan’s competitiveness was palpable. It was showcased vividly when he skillfully navigated a fairway bunker on the 18th hole at Shadow Creek. Ultimately, he sank a remarkable 30-footer.
via Imago
Phelps was genuinely impressed by Jordan’s prowess, acknowledging the NBA icon’s exceptional skills and the evident commitment he pours into the game. Phelps said, “I was like, “Dude, you sh***ing me?” I mean, he’s got great hands, and he obviously puts a ton of time in. I’m not talking any s**t to him.” Despite the friendly banter and competitive spirit on the course, Phelps has always admired Jordan as he revealed in a talk show also
Phelps’ poolside banter with Jordan
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Despite Michael Phelps’s unparalleled success in the pool, he always harboured a deep admiration for basketball icon Michael Jordan. The Olympic champion’s reverence for Jordan became palpable during a memorable encounter on a talk show in 2012. Jordan surprised Phelps and playfully challenged him to a golf tournament, sparking an entertaining showdown.
Read More: Internet Pours Love on Michael Phelps as the Olympian Shares Screen with NFL Legends
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However, when it came to the prospect of entering the pool, Jordan hesitated. He candidly admitted, “I cannot swim, so I am not getting in the pool.” Phelps, exhausted from his relentless dedication to swimming, responded humorously. He said, “I’m very tired, but I don’t know that I’ll be able to sleep now.” Despite his impressive haul of Olympic medals, Phelps considered Jordan, known as ‘His Airness,’ to be the greatest. He acknowledged the transformative impact Jordan had on the world of basketball.
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