Thanks to Michael Phelps' autobiography, readers got some awareness of Marfan syndrome. Phelps used his platform to boost the syndrome's awareness throughout his career. While known for 23 gold medals, the Olympian's legacy includes a candid approach to genetic health and mental wellness.

He wrote in the autobiography, “I have been tested once a year ever since at John's Hopkins under the direction of Dr. Peter Roe, and the tissues are strong, the aortic route is clear and my heart is in good shape - as long as my Baltimore Ravens are winning.”

During 2008, when Michael Phelps was setting the sporting world ablaze in the first half of his career, there were speculations concerning his unique physical attributes. Many were wondering whether his slender build, long arms, and flexible body were due to Marfan Syndrome.

This genetic disease causes the body's connective tissue to be defective and is still considered incurable in the world of medicine.

But, in his autobiography, Michael Phelps: Beneath the Surface, which was published in 2005, Phelps had already addressed Marfan Syndrome in relation to his physique before these questions came about.

The American revealed at the time that he had early symptoms of this condition, but fortunately, it turned out to be okay back then, and still to this day.

Michael Phelps hasn’t shied away from talking about mental health issues in his life

Despite having immense popularity as a sportsman, Michael Phelps hasn’t shied away from opening up about his private life to the world. He has not only talked about his mental health issues, but also given hope to people just like him to persevere regardless of their circumstances.

While speaking to the students of California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) in Orange County in 2022, Phelps gave his take on how to handle mental health issues. He said to them, “You’re going to have problems. You’re going to have hard times. I want every single one of you to ask for help.”

The 40-year-old is documented to have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and depression in his life, but he used it as fuel to find insane success in the world of swimming. He has given credit to ADHD in his journey to become the most decorated Olympian in history, calling it a “superpower”.

All in all, Phelps has been a great role model over the years for people from all walks of life, not just with his sporting accomplishments but also by being candid about his vulnerabilities in life.

Read more at Swimmer's Club!

Written by

Arjun Sharma

Edited by

Suyashdeep Sason