It’s been a decade since Michael Phelps had his last competitive swim. The Olympic legend bowed out in style, clinching five gold and one silver medal at Rio 2016. Ten years on from his departure, the 40-year-old had to debunk rumors. 

Speaking to CNN World Sport's Coy Wire, Phelps shut down comeback talks and recalled a hilarious incident.

“I just did a panel conversation with Wayne Gretzky and Lindsey Vonn,” he recalled. And “Wayne literally announced that (comeback).”

Phelps had recently shared an event panel with NHL legend Wayne Gretzky and alpine ski racer Lindsey Vonn. The most decorated Olympian of all time didn’t mince words about his stance.

“I was like 'I'm not coming back'. You are not starting this rumor right now,” he confirmed.

While dispelling rumors of a return, Phelps did admit to exploring the idea of competing on home soil. After all his Olympic triumphs have come in foreign lands, including Australia, Greece, China, the UK, and Brazil.

“Would it be enjoyable to compete on your home soil? A thousand percent,” he stated. “It's something I've always talked about throughout my career.”

However, with four kids and a foundation to run, Phelps has acknowledged the insurmountable challenge another Olympic run would bring.

Phelps further added, “The desire to win a gold medal isn't there enough for me to want to put myself through that.”

Although fans may be disappointed, Phelps remains content with his accomplishments, which include a record 23 gold medals. Additionally, the number aligns with his sporting inspiration.

“I don't want to get to 26 or 25. No, 23 is great,” he stated. “I always looked up to Jordan throughout my whole entire career. I hit 23, very satisfied.”

Notably, Phelps’ connection with the basketball legend doesn’t end there.

Like NBA icon Michael Jordan, Phelps came out of retirement for more glory

Following the 2012 Olympics, Michael Phelps made it clear he intended to walk away from the sport. 

At this stage, his trophy haul included 18 gold medals and 22 overall. He became the most decorated Olympian in history and the only swimmer to clinch gold in the same Olympic event three times.

“I’m done, I’m finished, I’m retired, I’m done. No more,” he told TODAY.

However, he returned four years later and further extended his legacy. Seemingly replicating Jordan’s return to the NBA in 1995, Phelps’ comeback in Rio was beyond successful.

With a bucketload of medals and an ode to his idol, Michael Phelps concluded his career in ways most athletes can only dream of.

What do you think? Did Phelps make the correct choice? Let us know in the comments.

Read more at Swimmer's Club.

Written by

Sijo Paul

Edited by

Sijo Paul