Michael Fred Phelps II is known to the world as an American swimmer who has set the record by being the only one with the most number of Olympic medals (28). His long course world records for 400-meter individual medleys, 200-meter and 100-meter butterfly swimming events are unbeaten. He holds a total of 83 medals (as on 2016) in major international competitions that include 66 gold, 14 silver and 3 bronze medals.
In the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Phelps broke Mark Spits’ seven gold medal-haul by winning 8 gold medals. In London Olympics, he went on to win 4 gold medals and two silver medals. In 2016, Phelps won 5 gold medals and one silver.
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Early life and background
This talented athlete was born on 30th June in the year 1985 in Baltimore, Maryland. His father Fred was a state topper and an all round athlete. His mother, Debbie Phelps used to serve as the principal of a school. Phelps, the youngest of three children, grew up in the neighborhood of Rodgers Forge, along with his two sisters. In the year 1994, his parents got separated and Debbie Phelps took the custody of Michael and his sisters.
Michael received his elementary education from Dumbarton Middle School. After that, he joined Towson High School to earn his high school degrees. He was highly fascinated with swimming and he began swimming when he was around seven years old, he let the media know that his sisters were the main driving force behind the starting of his swimming journey. By just the age of ten, Michael made the national record and started practicing at the North Baltimore Aquatic Club under the supervision of Coach Bob Bowman.
Career Rise
Phelps followed the paths which lead him to the Olympic trials and eventually he gained a seat at the summer Olympics session of the 2000 session. He won the title of the youngest player who represented America in the Olympics. He caught huge attention by securing the fifth position at the butterfly race of 200 meter.
In the year 2002, he participated in the Pan Pacific Championship and won three gold medals and two silver medals. In the world championship of the year 2003, he won several races such as the 100-meter butterfly, 200-meter backstroke and the 200-meter freestyle. Phelps never had to look back as he carried on with winning countless medals. In 2004, he won two bronze medals and six gold medals. Phelps own two silver medals and four gold medals at the 2012 London Olympics.
Michael Phelps – Wife
In the year 2015, this famous swimmer announced his engagement with Nicole Johnson, ex Miss California USA. The couple met in the year 2007 and temporarily broke up after five years but eventually they reunited. The adorable couple in blessed with a son named Boomer Robert Phelps.
Apart from winning 28 medals and making 39 world records, he received countless awards including the James E. Sullivan Award, Marca Leyenda, Sportsman of the Year 2008 and many more.
Does Michael Phelps have Marfan Syndrome?
The unique physical structure and elongated body-type made many prompt that the 1.93 meter tall Michael Phelps probably has Marfan Syndrome. However, tested negative for the syndrome.
Michael Phelps – Net worth and salary
It is estimated that the current net worth of this American Swimmer stands for $55 million. He enjoys annual earnings of around $5,992,800. His endorsement deals account for $12 million.
