Michael Phelps was diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) when he was in elementary school. Swimming became an outlet for his excess energy and helped him cope with his condition.
At the age of 15, Phelps became the youngest male swimmer to compete in an Olympic Games in 68 years during the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
Phelps holds the record for the most Olympic gold medals won in a single Olympic Games, with eight gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. He also holds the all-time record for the most Olympic gold medals, with 23 golds in total.
Phelps has a wingspan of 6 feet 7 inches (201 cm), which is 3 inches longer than his height of 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm). His body's unique proportions give him a significant advantage in the water.
During his intense training regimen, Phelps consumed around 12,000 calories per day. His diet included foods like pasta, pizza, and energy drinks to sustain his energy levels.
Phelps established the Michael Phelps Foundation in 2008, which focuses on promoting water safety, healthy living, and the pursuit of dreams for children.
After retiring from professional swimming, Phelps faced challenges, including depression. He has become an advocate for mental health awareness and has openly discussed his own struggles to reduce the stigma around mental health issues.
Phelps is known for his versatility in swimming strokes. He competes in butterfly, freestyle, backstroke, and individual medley events, making him a formidable opponent in multiple categories.
Phelps initially retired after the 2012 London Olympics but made a comeback in 2016 for the Rio Olympics, where he added more gold medals to his already impressive tally.
Phelps is a family-oriented person. He is married to Nicole Johnson, a former Miss California USA, and they have three sons together: Boomer, Beckett, and Maverick. Family has played a significant role in his life and career.