History of Michael Phelps in Timeline
Michael Phelps is an American retired competitive swimmer widely regarded as the most successful Olympian ever. Holding a record-breaking 28 Olympic medals, including 23 gold, he has dominated the sport. Notably, Phelps achieved unprecedented feats like winning eight gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Games, surpassing Mark Spitz's record. His consistent excellence is evident in his multiple wins at the 2004, 2012, and 2016 Olympics, cementing his legacy as a swimming legend.
1912: Otto Farr's 100 Backstroke World Record
Germany's Otto Farr set the 100 backstroke world record in 1912. This record stood until 1926, making it the longest men's world record to stand in long course meters at that point.
1920: Phelps Surpasses Duke Kahanamoku's Record
Michael Phelps' victory in the 200-meter butterfly at the age of 31 in Rio made him the oldest individual swimming champion in Olympic history, surpassing Duke Kahanamoku's record from 1920.
1926: End of Otto Farr's World Record
Otto Farr's 100 backstroke world record, set in 1912, stood until 1926, when it was finally broken.
1932: Ralph Flanagan Represents the U.S. at the Olympics
In 1932, Ralph Flanagan participated in the Olympics as a representative of the United States.
1972: Mark Spitz's Seven Gold Medals
At the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, Mark Spitz won seven gold medals, a record that stood until Michael Phelps surpassed it in 2008.
1972: Comparison to Mark Spitz's Olympic Success
In 1972, Mark Spitz achieved a groundbreaking feat by winning seven gold medals at the Summer Olympics, setting a benchmark for Olympic success. Michael Phelps's performance at the Olympics, where he won six gold and two bronze medals, drew comparisons to Spitz's accomplishment.
1972: 1972 Summer Olympics
Mark Spitz set the record for most gold medals at a global long-course championship at the 1972 Summer Olympics, which Michael Phelps tied in 2007.
1972: Mark Spitz's Record-Setting Performance
Mark Spitz won seven gold medals at the 1972 Olympic Games, setting the record for most gold medals in a single Games. This record was tied by Michael Phelps in 2008.
1980: Eric Heiden's Record-Setting Performance
Eric Heiden set the record for most individual gold medals in a single Winter Olympics, with five at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid.
1983: Bob Bowman's Swimming Career at Florida State University
From 1983 to 1985, Bob Bowman, who would become Michael Phelps's longtime coach, was a swimmer at Florida State University.
June 30, 1985: Birth of Michael Phelps
On June 30, 1985, Michael Fred Phelps II, the renowned American former competitive swimmer, was born.
1985: Conclusion of Bowman's Swimming Career at FSU
Bob Bowman concluded his swimming career at Florida State University in 1985.
1992: Vitaly Scherbo's Record-Setting Performance
Gymnast Vitaly Scherbo won five individual gold medals at the 1992 Summer Olympics, tying the record set by Eric Heiden in 1980.
1994: Phelps's Parents Divorce
In 1994, when Phelps was nine years old, his parents went through a divorce.
2000: First Swimmer to Make Five Finals in the Same Event
In 2000, Michael Phelps became the first swimmer in history to reach the finals of the same event five times, marking a significant achievement in his early career.
2000: Phelps Qualifies for the Olympics at Age 15
Michael Phelps achieved a significant milestone at the age of 15 by qualifying for the 2000 Summer Olympics. This made him the youngest male swimmer to represent the United States at the Olympics in 68 years, following in the footsteps of Ralph Flanagan who achieved this feat in 1932.
2000: First Olympic Games Appearance
Michael Phelps participated in his first Olympic Games in 2000 as a member of the USA Olympic team.
2000: 2000 Sydney Olympics
Michael Phelps participated in the 2000 Sydney Olympics, marking his first Olympic appearance.
2000: Phelps's Father Remarries
Michael Phelps's father remarried in 2000.
2001: 2001 World Aquatics Championships
Ian Thorpe set the record for most gold medals at the World Aquatics Championships with six at the 2001 event, which Michael Phelps broke in 2007.
2001: Previous World Record in 200-meter Butterfly
In 2001, Michael Phelps set a world record in the 200-meter butterfly, which he would go on to break in 2003.
2001: Phelps Breaks World Record, Becomes Youngest Male to Hold a World Record
On March 30, during the World Championship Trials for the 2001 World Aquatics Championships, Michael Phelps etched his name in swimming history by breaking the world record in the 200-meter butterfly. This remarkable achievement made him, at 15 years and 9 months old, the youngest male ever to set a world record in swimming. He surpassed the previous record held by Ian Thorpe, who was 16 years and 10 months old when he set the 400-meter freestyle world record. At the World Championships in Fukuoka, Japan, Phelps further cemented his dominance by breaking his own world record in the 200-meter butterfly, simultaneously claiming his first-ever world championship title.
2002: Phelps Sets Records and Prepares for Pan Pacific Championships
At the National Championships in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the selection meet for the 2002 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships, Michael Phelps showcased his exceptional talent. He established an American record in the 200-meter individual medley, narrowly missing the world record in the 200-meter butterfly. Furthermore, in the 400-meter individual medley, Phelps surpassed Tom Dolan's world record, clocking in at an impressive 4:11.09, narrowly out-touching Erik Vendt, who finished second with a time of 4:11.27, also surpassing the previous world record. Phelps secured second place in the 200-meter freestyle, narrowly defeated by Klete Keller, while in the 100-meter butterfly, he emerged victorious over Ian Crocker.
2002: Phelps Wins Multiple Medals at Pan Pacific Championships
During the 2002 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships held in Yokohama, Japan, Michael Phelps continued to demonstrate his prowess in the pool, securing three gold and two silver medals. In the 400-meter individual medley, he clinched the gold medal with a time of 4:12.48, finishing ahead of Erik Vendt. However, in the 200-meter butterfly, Phelps faced a setback, losing to Tom Malchow with a time of 1:55.41 to Malchow's 1:55.21. Reflecting on his defeat, Phelps admitted to not prioritizing butterfly training as rigorously after his world record-breaking performance. Phelps bounced back in the 200-meter individual medley, securing victory with a time of 1:59.70. In the 4×200-meter freestyle relay, Phelps teamed up with Nate Dusing, Klete Keller, and Chad Carvin, earning the silver medal with a time of 7:11.81, finishing behind Australia. The U.S. 4×100-meter medley relay team, consisting of Aaron Peirsol, Brendan Hansen, Phelps, and Ian Crocker, concluded the championships on a high note. In a display of exceptional speed, Phelps swam a remarkable 51.1 split in the final, setting a new record for the fastest split in history at that time. Their collective effort resulted in a final time of 3:33.48, establishing a new world record.
2002: Phelps' Unbeaten Streak Begins
This event marks the start of Michael Phelps' undefeated streak in the 200-meter butterfly, which he maintained until at least 2010. This detail highlights his dominance in the event.
2003: Phelps Graduates from Towson High School
Michael Phelps graduated from Towson High School in 2003, marking the completion of his high school education.
2003: Previous World Record in 200-meter Individual Medley
In 2003, Phelps set a world record in the 200-meter individual medley, which he later broke in 2006.
2003: Success at Nationals and World Records at Duel in the Pool
In 2003, Michael Phelps showcased his dominance at the US Nationals, securing victories in the 200-meter freestyle, 200-meter backstroke, and 100-meter butterfly, becoming the first American swimmer to achieve this feat. His success continued at the Duel in the Pool, where he set a new world record in the 400-meter individual medley with a time of 4:10.73. He narrowly missed breaking the world record in the 100-meter butterfly by a mere 0.03 seconds.
2003: Dominance at the 2003 World Aquatics Championships
At the 2003 World Aquatics Championships, Phelps solidified his status as a swimming phenomenon, claiming four gold medals, two silver medals, and shattering five world records. He set his first world record of the championships on July 22nd in the semi-finals of the 200-meter butterfly, clocking in at an astounding 1:53.93, surpassing his previous record of 1:54.58 set in 2001. This achievement marked him as the first man to break the 1:54.00 barrier in the event.
November 2004: Phelps Arrested for DUI, Faces Consequences
At the age of 19 in November 2004, Michael Phelps faced legal trouble when he was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol in Salisbury, Maryland, resulting in probation, fines, and speaking engagements to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving.
2004: Bowman Becomes Head Coach at University of Michigan
Following the 2004 Summer Olympics, Bob Bowman, Michael Phelps's coach, was appointed as the head coach for the University of Michigan's swimming program after the retirement of Jon Urbanchek.
2004: First Swimmer to Make Five Finals in the Same Event
In 2004, Michael Phelps further solidified his record by again reaching the finals in the 200-meter butterfly, making it his fourth consecutive final in the event.
2004: USA Olympic Team and Street Naming
In 2004, Michael Phelps was part of the USA Olympic team and a street in his hometown of Baltimore was renamed "The Michael Phelps Way" in his honor.
2004: Phelps Ties Olympic Medal Record
In 2004, at the Summer Olympics in Athens, Michael Phelps made history by equaling the record for the highest number of medals won at a single Olympic Games. He achieved this by securing six gold and two bronze medals, matching gymnast Alexander Dityatin's achievement of eight medals in a single Games.
2004: 2004 Athens Olympics
Michael Phelps competed in the 2004 Athens Olympics, where he won six gold and two bronze medals. His victory in the 100m butterfly was particularly close, with a margin of 0.04 seconds.
2004: 2004 Athens Olympics
Michael Phelps won two butterfly titles at the 2004 Athens Olympics, setting him up to be the first swimmer, male or female, to win three Olympic butterfly titles in 2008.
2004: Record-Breaking Performance at the 2004 US Olympic Team Trials
Phelps participated in six events at the 2004 US Olympic Team Trials, aiming to secure his spot on the Olympic team. In the 400-meter individual medley, he dominated, setting a new world record of 4:08.41. He also triumphed in the 200-meter freestyle with a time of 1:46.27, although he expressed dissatisfaction with his performance. He continued his winning streak in the 200-meter butterfly (1:54.31) and 200-meter individual medley, showcasing his exceptional skills and determination.
2004: 2004 Athens Olympics 4x100-Meter Medley Relay
The United States set a world record in the 4x100-meter medley relay at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, a record they would break in 2008.
2005: Ian Crocker's 100-Meter Butterfly World Record
Ian Crocker set the world record in the 100-meter butterfly in 2005, with a time of 50.40 seconds.
2005: Success and a Setback at the 2005 World Aquatics Championships
Phelps's performance at the 2005 World Aquatics Championships was marked by both triumph and a minor setback. He secured an impressive five gold medals and one silver medal, highlighting his continued dominance in the sport. However, in the 100-meter butterfly final, he faced stiff competition from Ian Crocker, who set a new world record. Phelps had to settle for silver in that event.
2005: Experimentation and Victories at the 2005 World Championship Trials
At the 2005 World Championship Trials, Phelps made a strategic decision to step outside his comfort zone. He opted to forgo his signature events, the 400-meter individual medley and 200-meter butterfly, instead focusing on the 400-meter freestyle and 100-meter freestyle. This calculated risk paid off as he emerged victorious in the 400-meter freestyle, 200-meter freestyle, 100-meter butterfly, 100-meter freestyle, and 200-meter individual medley, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability.
2006: 2006 Pan Pacific Championships
Michael Phelps competed in the backstroke at the international level only once, at the 2006 Pan Pacific Championships.
2006: Victories and Championship Records at the 2006 National Championships
Phelps continued his winning streak at the 2006 National Championships, securing victories in three events. He dominated the 200-meter butterfly, setting a new championship record with a time of 1:54.32. In a closely contested 100-meter butterfly race, he narrowly defeated Ian Crocker, setting another championship record of 51.51. He also emerged triumphant in the 200-meter individual medley, further solidifying his position as a top swimmer.
2006: Gold Medals and World Records at the 2006 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships
The 2006 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships in Victoria, British Columbia, witnessed another stellar performance from Phelps. He added five gold medals and one silver medal to his ever-growing collection. Notably, he set a new world record in the 200-meter butterfly with a time of 1:53.80, marking his first world record in two years. He also set a new world record in the 200-meter individual medley (1:55.84), breaking his previous record from 2003.
August 1, 2007: US Nationals in Indianapolis
On August 1, 2007, at the US Nationals in Indianapolis, Michael Phelps swam a 1:54.65 in the 200-meter backstroke. This was the third fastest time ever in the event, only 0.33 seconds off the world record.
2007: 2007 World Aquatics Championships
At the 2007 World Aquatics Championships, Michael Phelps won seven gold medals, tying Mark Spitz's 1972 record for a global long-course championship. He also broke five world records in the process.
2007: First Meeting with Nicole Johnson
Michael Phelps and Nicole Johnson first crossed paths in 2007 at the ESPY Awards, which would later blossom into a long-term relationship.
2007: Phelps' Continued Success in 100-meter Butterfly
This event highlights the beginning of Michael Phelps' winning streak in the 100-meter butterfly at the World Aquatics Championships, which he continued in 2009 and 2011. This detail emphasizes his consistent excellence in the event.
2008: 2008 Beijing Olympics
Michael Phelps competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he won eight gold medals. This achievement marked a significant milestone in his swimming career.
2008: 4x100-Meter Freestyle Relay at the 2008 Olympics
The United States won the 4x100-meter freestyle relay at the 2008 Olympics, with Michael Phelps swimming the first leg. The team set a new world record in the event.
2008: 2008 Olympic Games
The 2008 Olympic Games took place in Beijing, China.
2008: First Swimmer to Make Five Finals in the Same Event
Phelps continued his dominance in the 200-meter butterfly in 2008, once again reaching the finals and adding to his streak of appearances in the event.
2008: Phelps Achieves Eight Gold Medals, Inspiring Ian Thorpe
Michael Phelps' pursuit of eight gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics served as a powerful motivator, even inspiring his idol, Australian swimmer Ian Thorpe, who witnessed Phelps' historic achievement.
2008: 2008 Beijing Olympics and 2009 Rome World Aquatics Championships
Michael Phelps won the men's 4 × 100 m freestyle relay at both the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2009 Rome World Aquatics Championships, marking significant achievements in his career.
2008: Record-Breaking Olympic Performance
Michael Phelps was a member of the USA Olympic team in 2008 and achieved a record-breaking performance at the Beijing Games, winning eight gold medals.
2008: 2008 U.S. Olympic Team Trials
Michael Phelps competed in the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team Trials, winning several events and setting himself up for a run at eight gold medals in Beijing.
2008: 2008 Beijing Olympics
Michael Phelps competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he won eight gold medals. His victory in the 100m butterfly was remarkably close, with a margin of only 0.01 seconds.
2008: 2008 Beijing Olympics
Michael Phelps competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he won eight gold medals. This achievement marked a significant milestone in his swimming career.
2008: First Breakup with Nicole Johnson
Michael Phelps and Nicole Johnson experienced their first breakup in 2008, marking a period of separation in their relationship.
2008: Establishment of the Michael Phelps Foundation
Following the 2008 Summer Olympics, Michael Phelps established the Michael Phelps Foundation. This non-profit organization focuses on promoting swimming and encouraging healthier lifestyles, particularly among children.
2008: Phelps Named Sports Illustrated's Sportsman of the Year
Following his unprecedented success at the 2008 Olympic Games, where he won a record-breaking eight gold medals, Michael Phelps was named Sports Illustrated magazine's Sportsman of the Year. This prestigious award recognized his remarkable athletic achievements and the global impact of his performance.
2008: Establishment of the Michael Phelps Foundation
Following his success at the 2008 Olympics, Michael Phelps established the Michael Phelps Foundation, utilizing his $1 million bonus from Speedo to support the sport of swimming and promote healthy living.
2008: Phelps Addresses Doping Rumors
During the 2008 Olympics, Michael Phelps faced questions about whether his accomplishments were achieved fairly, fueled by rumors about performance-enhancing drugs. In response, he highlighted his participation in "Project Believe," a US Anti-Doping Agency initiative where athletes volunteer for rigorous testing beyond standard guidelines. Phelps successfully passed all nine tests he underwent during the Games.
2008: Phelps Surpasses Spitz's Record with Eight Gold Medals
At the 2008 Beijing Games, Michael Phelps etched his name in Olympic history by winning eight gold medals, surpassing Mark Spitz's 1972 record of seven first-place finishes at a single Olympic Games.
2008: Bowman and Phelps Return to Baltimore
After the 2008 Summer Olympics, both Bob Bowman and Michael Phelps returned to Baltimore. Bowman assumed the role of CEO at the North Baltimore Aquatic Club, while Phelps continued his training under Bowman's guidance.
February 2009: Phelps Faces Backlash Over Bong Photo, Issues Public Apology
In February 2009, a photo of Michael Phelps using a bong surfaced online, leading to a media storm, loss of sponsorships, and a suspension from USA Swimming. Phelps took responsibility for his actions and issued a public apology.
April 9, 2009: Honored by Maryland General Assembly
On April 9, 2009, Michael Phelps was invited to appear before the Maryland House of Delegates and the Maryland Senate to be honored for his Olympic accomplishments.
2009: Phelps' Mixed Results at World Aquatics Championships
At the 2009 World Aquatics Championships, Michael Phelps secured six medals: five gold and one silver. He faced a setback in the 200-meter freestyle, losing to Germany's Paul Biedermann, who set a new world record while wearing a full polyurethane suit. Phelps' coach, Bob Bowman, raised concerns about the suit's fairness, sparking controversy. Despite this, Phelps went on to win gold in the 200-meter butterfly, setting a new world record. He also won gold in the 100-meter butterfly, becoming the first person to break the 50-second barrier.
2009: 2009 Rome World Aquatics Championships
Michael Phelps won the men's 4 × 100 m freestyle relay at the 2009 Rome World Aquatics Championships, marking a significant achievement in his career.
2009: Phelps' Continued Success in 100-meter Butterfly
This event is a continuation of Michael Phelps' winning streak in the 100-meter butterfly at the World Aquatics Championships, which he began in 2007 and continued in 2011. This detail emphasizes his consistent excellence in the event.
2009: Phelps' Dominant Performance at National Championships
At the 2009 National Championships, Michael Phelps streamlined his program, competing in just three events. He secured victories in all three: the 200-meter freestyle (1:44.23), the 200-meter butterfly (1:52.76), and the 100-meter butterfly, where he set a new world record with a time of 50.22.
2010: Second Breakup with Nicole Johnson
After reconciling, Michael Phelps and Nicole Johnson went through another breakup in 2010.
2010: Phelps' Performance at National Championships
At the 2010 National Championships, Michael Phelps participated in five individual events. He emerged victorious in the 200-meter freestyle and the 200-meter butterfly, although he expressed dissatisfaction with his performance in the latter, deeming it his "worst" ever. Additionally, he secured his 50th national title by winning the 100-meter butterfly. However, he faced defeat against Ryan Lochte in the 200-meter individual medley, marking Lochte's first victory over Phelps in a major national competition. Phelps finished fourth in the 200-meter backstroke.
2010: Phelps at the Pan Pacific Swimming Championships
At the 2010 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships, Michael Phelps opted to prioritize the 200-meter butterfly, where he secured victory, continuing his winning streak in this event since 2002. He also participated in the 4x200-meter freestyle relay, contributing to the team's victory. Despite not qualifying for the A final in the 400-meter individual medley, Phelps achieved a championship record in the 100-meter butterfly. His participation in the 4x100-meter freestyle relay led to a team victory and a championship record for his lead-off leg in the 100-meter freestyle. Phelps concluded his events with another win in the 4x100-meter medley relay.
2010: Launch of the "im" Program for Children's Health
In 2010, the Michael Phelps Foundation partnered with the Michael Phelps Swim School and KidsHealth.org to create the "im" program, a national initiative aimed at promoting physical activity, healthy habits, and goal-setting among children through the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Special Olympics International.
2011: Phelps Sets Personal Best in 200-Meter Individual Medley
In 2011, Michael Phelps achieved a personal best in the 200-meter individual medley, finishing second to Ryan Lochte, who set a new world record.
2011: Release of "Michael Phelps: Push the Limit" Video Game
"Michael Phelps: Push the Limit," an Xbox 360/Kinect game featuring the swimming champion, was released in 2011, aiming to bring the experience of competitive swimming to living rooms.
2011: Phelps' World Aquatics Championships Performance
At the 2011 World Aquatics Championships, Michael Phelps experienced both victory and defeat. He earned a bronze medal in the 4x100-meter freestyle relay, his first bronze in this competition. In the 200-meter freestyle, he secured a silver medal for the second consecutive time, finishing behind Ryan Lochte. However, he triumphed in the 200-meter butterfly, earning his first gold medal of the championships and making history as the first swimmer to achieve five gold medals in a single discipline at the World Aquatics Championships.
July 28, 2012: 2012 London Olympics - Day 1
On July 28, 2012, at the London Olympics, Michael Phelps placed eighth in the 400-meter individual medley prelims, qualifying for the final. However, he finished fourth in the final, marking the first time he didn't medal in an Olympic event since 2000. He later won silver in the 4×100-meter free relay, swimming the fastest leg for the US team.
July 31, 2012: 2012 London Olympics - Day 3
On July 31, 2012, during the London Olympics, Michael Phelps won silver in the 200-meter butterfly and gold in the 4×200-meter freestyle relay. This win made him the all-time record holder for most Olympic medals won, surpassing Larisa Latynina.
August 2, 2012: 2012 London Olympics - Day 5
On August 2, 2012, during the London Olympics, Phelps won his 16th Olympic gold medal in the 200-meter individual medley, becoming the first male swimmer to win the same event in three consecutive Olympics. This win also marked his fifth Olympic title in the individual medley, breaking the record previously held by Tamás Darnyi and Yana Klochkova.
2012: USA Olympic Team Member
Michael Phelps continued his Olympic journey as a member of the USA Olympic team in 2012.
2012: Phelps vs. Le Clos Rivalry Begins
The rivalry between Michael Phelps and Chad le Clos began in 2012, setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch in the 2016 Olympics.
2012: Phelps Receives FINA Swimmer of the Year Award
Michael Phelps was honored with the prestigious FINA Swimmer of the Year Award in 2012, recognizing his exceptional performance and contributions to the sport.
2012: Phelps Continues Olympic Success in London
Michael Phelps further solidified his dominance in swimming at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. He added to his impressive medal tally by winning four gold and two silver medals, showcasing his exceptional skills and athleticism.
2012: Reconciliation with Nicole Johnson
Michael Phelps and Nicole Johnson began to mend their relationship in 2012, eventually leading to their engagement and marriage.
2012: Training for 2012 London Olympics
In preparation for the 2012 London Olympics, Michael Phelps's relationship with his coach, Bob Bowman, deteriorated. However, upon his return to swimming in 2014, Phelps persuaded Bowman to train him with a renewed focus on personal growth and enjoyment, rather than solely on medals and historical achievements.
2012: 2012 London Olympics - Closing Ceremony
In 2012, at the conclusion of the London Olympics, Michael Phelps was honored by FINA, the international swimming federation, for being the most decorated Olympian ever. This recognition followed his success at the Games, where he won four gold and two silver medals, making him the most successful swimmer for the third consecutive Olympics.
2012: Preparation for the 2012 London Olympics
In 2012, Michael Phelps initially planned to participate in new events at the London Olympics, but ultimately qualified for the same eight events he swam in Beijing in 2008. He dropped the 200-meter freestyle to concentrate on the 4×100-meter freestyle relay.
2012: Phelps Experiences Suicidal Thoughts
Following the 2012 Olympics, Michael Phelps experienced a low point in his life, grappling with suicidal thoughts.
2012: Retirement from Swimming
Following the 2012 London Olympics, Michael Phelps announced his retirement from swimming, stating his desire to move on from the sport.
2012: Phelps Sets World Record for Longest Televised Putt
Displaying his skills beyond the swimming pool, Michael Phelps set a world record for the longest televised putt at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in 2012, sinking a 159-foot putt.
2012: Phelps Expresses Desire to Focus on Foundation Work
After the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, Michael Phelps shared his intention to dedicate more time and effort to his foundation, emphasizing his commitment to giving back and making a difference beyond his swimming career.
2012: Phelps Retires from Swimming (First Retirement)
After the 2012 Olympics, Michael Phelps made the decision to retire from swimming. This marked the end of his first chapter in the sport, during which he achieved unparalleled success.
April 2014: Phelps Returns to Competitive Swimming
In April 2014, Michael Phelps announced his return to competitive swimming, coming out of retirement to pursue further glory in the pool.
April 2014: Return to Swimming
In April 2014, Michael Phelps announced his return to competitive swimming, marking the end of his retirement.
May 2014: Arena Grand Prix Victory
In May 2014, Michael Phelps won the 100-meter butterfly event at the Arena Grand Prix in Charlotte, North Carolina. This victory came after his return from retirement and was partly motivated by the US national team's recent struggles in the men's 4 × 100 m freestyle relay.
September 2014: Phelps Arrested for DUI Again, Suspended from Swimming
Michael Phelps faced legal repercussions and suspension from swimming in September 2014 after a second arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol, resulting in a six-month suspension and his exclusion from the 2015 World Aquatics Championships.
2014: Phelps' Comments Spark Rivalry with Le Clos
In 2014, Michael Phelps' comments about slow butterfly times were perceived as a challenge by Chad le Clos, intensifying their rivalry.
February 2015: Engagement to Nicole Johnson
Michael Phelps and Nicole Johnson got engaged in February 2015, marking a significant step in their relationship.
December 2015: Winter Nationals
In December 2015, Michael Phelps competed in the Winter Nationals held in Federal Way. He won titles in the 100-meter butterfly, 200-meter butterfly, and 200-meter individual medley, bringing his total career national titles to 62.
2015: Bowman and Phelps Move to Arizona
In 2015, when Bob Bowman was hired as the swimming coach at Arizona State University, Michael Phelps relocated to Arizona to continue his training under Bowman's guidance.
2015: USA Swimming Team Impacted by Phelps' Absence
The absence of Michael Phelps from the USA Swimming team in 2015, due to his suspension, was felt as the team failed to qualify for the finals of the 4 × 100 m freestyle relay at the World Aquatics Championships.
2015: US National Championships
In 2015, after being removed from the World Aquatics Championships team due to a DUI, Michael Phelps participated in the US National Championships. He secured victories in the 100-meter butterfly, 200-meter butterfly, and 200-meter individual medley, achieving the fastest times globally for that year.
June 13, 2016: Marriage to Nicole Johnson
Michael Phelps and Nicole Johnson, former Miss California USA, were married in a private ceremony on June 13, 2016.
August 12, 2016: Phelps Announces Second Retirement
On August 12, 2016, Michael Phelps officially announced his second retirement from competitive swimming. This decision came after a highly successful career, during which he won more Olympic medals than 161 countries, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
2016: Phelps Reflects on His Early Swimming Journey
After his retirement in 2016, Michael Phelps reflected on his early swimming journey, stating that his initial foray into the sport was prompted by his mother's desire for him to learn how to swim. He and his sisters developed a passion for swimming, which ultimately led to his extraordinary career.
2016: 2016 US Olympic Trials
At the 2016 US Olympic Trials, Michael Phelps secured his spot on the Olympic team by winning the 200m butterfly, 200m individual medley, and 100m butterfly events. This accomplishment marked him as the first American male swimmer, and second overall after Dara Torres, to qualify for a fifth Olympics. Despite less impressive times in the 100m freestyle at the Trials, Phelps secured a place on the Men's 4 × 100 metre freestyle relay team with a strong performance at a training camp in Atlanta.
2016: Phelps's Final Olympic Appearance in Rio
In his fifth and final Olympic appearance at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Michael Phelps cemented his legacy as an Olympic icon. He concluded his Olympic journey with a remarkable five gold and one silver medal, further solidifying his status as the most decorated Olympian of all time.
2016: Phelps Receives Second FINA Swimmer of the Year Award
In recognition of his outstanding achievements and contributions to swimming, Michael Phelps was once again honored with the FINA Swimmer of the Year Award in 2016.
2016: Training for 2016 Rio Olympics
Leading up to the 2016 Rio Olympics, Michael Phelps implemented changes in his training regimen, including reducing calorie intake and increasing post-swim ice baths, to optimize his physical condition. His coach, Bob Bowman, also introduced new drills to Phelps's routine, such as dolphin kicks with weights, contributing to his enhanced strength in the water.
2016: Final Olympic Appearance
Michael Phelps participated in his final Olympic Games in 2016 as a member of the USA Olympic team, marking the end of his illustrious Olympic career.
2016: 2016 Rio Olympics
On August 7, 2016, at the Rio Olympics, Michael Phelps won his 19th Olympic gold medal in the 4 × 100 m freestyle relay. His exceptional performance in the second leg, particularly his turn, proved crucial to the team's victory.
2016: Phelps Seeks Advice from Ray Lewis, Finds Purpose for 2016 Olympics
Seeking guidance and inspiration, Michael Phelps turned to Baltimore Ravens legend Ray Lewis for advice, a conversation that reignited his passion for swimming and fueled his decision to compete in the 2016 Summer Olympics.
2017: Phelps Joins Medibio Board
Expanding his advocacy for mental health, Michael Phelps joined the board of Medibio in 2017, a company specializing in the diagnosis of mental health disorders, using his platform to raise awareness and support advancements in the field.
2017: Phelps Wins Laureus World Comeback of the Year Award
Michael Phelps was honored with the Laureus World Comeback of the Year Award in 2017. This accolade recognized his triumphant return to competitive swimming after retirement, culminating in a successful performance at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
January 2018: Phelps Opens Up About Mental Health Struggles
In a candid revelation in January 2018, Michael Phelps shared his personal battles with ADHD and depression, shedding light on the mental health challenges he faced, including suicidal thoughts after the 2012 Olympics.
August 21, 2018: Phelps Still Holds Multiple Age Group Records
As of August 21, 2018, Michael Phelps continued to hold an impressive 11 age group records in swimming. This included eight records in long course and three in short course, a testament to his early talent and dominance in the sport.
July 23, 2023: Phelps Holds Two World Records
As of July 23, 2023, Michael Phelps continues to hold two world records in swimming, solidifying his place in the sport's history despite the breaking of his last standing individual world record in the 400m IM.