Challenges in the Life of Michael Phelps in a Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Michael Phelps's life and career.

Michael Phelps is the most decorated Olympian of all time, holding a record of 28 medals. He has the most Olympic gold medals (23), the most individual gold medals (13), and the most individual medals overall (16). At the 2004 Athens Olympics, he tied the record with eight medals, winning six gold and two bronze. In 2008, he broke the record for most first-place finishes at a single Olympic Games with eight gold medals. He continued his success at the 2012 London Olympics with four gold and two silver medals, and at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, winning five gold and one silver. He was the most successful athlete for four consecutive Olympics.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

1994: Parents' Divorce

In 1994, when Phelps was nine years old, his parents divorced, which had a severe negative impact on him and his siblings.

2000: First time without medal

In 2000, Michael Phelps did not get a medal in an Olympic event, for the first time in his career.

November 2004: Arrested for Driving Under the Influence

In November 2004, Michael Phelps, at age 19, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol in Salisbury, Maryland. He pleaded guilty to driving while impaired and was sentenced to probation, fined, and ordered to speak to students about drinking and driving.

February 2009: Photograph Using a Bong Goes Viral

In February 2009, a photograph of Michael Phelps using a bong went viral, leading to the loss of Kellogg's as a sponsor and a three-month suspension by USA Swimming. He admitted the photo was authentic and apologized for his "inappropriate" behavior.

2012: Contemplation of Suicide After 2012 Olympics

After the 2012 Olympics, Michael Phelps contemplated suicide due to struggles with depression.

2012: Second Place in 200-meter Butterfly

In 2012, Michael Phelps finished second in the 200-meter butterfly at the London Olympics, losing to Chad le Clos.

2012: Deteriorated relationship with coach

In 2012, The relationship between Phelps and coach Bob Bowman had deteriorated in the preparations for London.

September 2014: Arrested for DUI and Suspended by USA Swimming

In September 2014, Michael Phelps was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and speeding in Baltimore. As a result, USA Swimming suspended him from all competitions for six months and barred him from representing the United States at the 2015 World Aquatics Championships.

2015: US National Championships

In 2015, after being dropped from the team for the World Aquatics Championships due to a DUI, Michael Phelps competed in the US National Championships in San Antonio. He won gold medals in the 100-meter butterfly, 200-meter butterfly, and the 200-meter individual medley, achieving the fastest times in the world for that year in each event.

2015: United States Fails to Qualify for Finals

In 2015, due to Michael Phelps's suspension, the United States failed to qualify for the finals of the 4 × 100 m freestyle relay at the World Aquatics Championships.