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 28 medals. He boasts the most Olympic gold medals (23), individual gold medals (13), and individual medals (16). He tied the record of eight medals at the 2004 Athens Games, winning six gold and two bronze. In 2008, he broke Mark Spitz's record by winning eight gold medals at a single Olympics. He continued his success in London 2012, winning four gold and two silver, and Rio 2016, with five gold and one silver, making him the most successful athlete for the fourth consecutive Olympics.
1994: Parents' Divorce
In 1994, when Michael Phelps was nine years old, his parents divorced, which he later revealed had a severe negative impact on him and his siblings.
2000: First time not medaling since 2000
The July 28, 2012 event marked the first time Michael Phelps had not medaled at the Olympics since the 2000 Olympics.
November 2004: Arrested for DUI in Salisbury, Maryland
In November 2004, Michael Phelps was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol in Salisbury, Maryland, leading to probation and community service.
February 2009: Photograph of Phelps Using a Bong Goes Viral
In February 2009, a photograph of Michael Phelps using a bong went viral, resulting in the loss of Kellogg's as a sponsor and a three-month suspension by USA Swimming.
July 28, 2012: July 28, 2012: 400-meter Individual Medley
On July 28, 2012, Michael Phelps qualified last for the final in the 400-meter individual medley at the London Olympics. He then finished fourth in the final, marking the first time he failed to medal in an Olympic event since 2000.
2012: Contemplated Suicide After Olympics
After the 2012 Olympics, Michael Phelps contemplated suicide, revealing the depth of his struggles with depression.
2012: Finished 2nd in the 200-meter Butterfly
In 2012, Michael Phelps finished second in the 200-meter butterfly at the London Olympics, losing the title to Chad le Clos.
2012: London 2012 Deteriorated Relationship with Coach
The relationship between Phelps and coach Bob Bowman had deteriorated in the preparations for London 2012.
September 2014: Arrested for DUI and Speeding in Baltimore
In September 2014, Michael Phelps was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and speeding in Baltimore, resulting in a six-month suspension from USA Swimming.
2015: Suspension from World Aquatics Championships
Due to his DUI arrest in 2014, Michael Phelps was suspended from competing in the 2015 World Aquatics Championships, affecting the United States' performance in the 4 × 100 m freestyle relay.
January 2018: Phelps Reveals Struggles with ADHD and Depression
In January 2018, Michael Phelps publicly revealed that he has struggled with both ADHD and depression.
