Everyone loves a good comeback story.
On Wednesday, Michael Phelps revealed that he has his sights set on swimming in next year’s Olympics — despite his two DUI arrests, a stint in treatment, and a six-month suspension from competing.
For the Olympian with the most gold medals in history, he’s looking to leave all of that drama in the past and thus has vowed to stay sober until the games in Brazil. Whoa!
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He shared:
“Before I even went to court, I said to myself that I’m not going to drink until after Rio ├óΓé¼ΓÇ£ if I ever drink again. That was a decision I made for myself. I’m being honest with myself. Going into 2008 and 2012, I didn’t do that. I didn’t say I was going to take a year off from drinking and not have a drink.”
Well said! We’re LOVING this re-focused attitude Phelps is showcasing.
He continued:
“If I’m going to come back, I need to do this the right way. I’ve got to put my body in the best physical shape I can possibly get it in. Is it a challenge? No. I go to bed earlier. I sleep more. I wake up every day and have a completely clear head. I don’t feel like my head went through a brick wall. There are so many positives to it.”
Unfortunately, the swimmer is unable to compete at the world championships in Kazan, Russia because of his suspension — but he WILL be competing this week in the U.S. championships in San Antonio, Texas. Yasss!
We’re not surprised at his choice to stay sober — because for the 30-year-old, next year’s Olympics will likely be his last.
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He noted:
“I have a year left in my career. If I really want it bad enough, I will make that sacrifice.”
That’s intense stuff.
It seems things are going very well in Michael’s life currently. In fact, he became engaged to his GF Nicole Johnson back in February of this year.
LOVES it!
Nonetheless, it hasn’t always been easy for the A-Lister as he revealed that therapy helped him deal with his issues.
He relayed:
“I feel like I am okay and I am happy with who I am. I feel like I’ve learned so much about myself, who I truly am. I can honestly say there aren’t many people who have seen who I really am.”
We’re excited to see this newly empowered Phelps back in the pool come 2016. Perhaps he’ll break a few more records?
Fingers crossed.
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