Michael Phelps 2016 Summer Olympics & Return: After Brief Retirement, Phelps Returns To Competition; Will He Compete in 2016 Games?
One of the world's most decorated swimmers is giving his fans something to cheer for again.
Twenty-two-time gold medalist Michael Phelps will be competing in three events in Mesa, Ariz. from April 24-26, according to his coach, Bob Bowman.
The timing is particularly interesting with the looming 2016 Olympics in Rio. According to ESPN, Phelps returned to training last fall and is currently waiting through a six-month drug testing window in order to become eligible to compete.
"He's gotten back into good shape since September," Bowman said. "He can give a good effort and certainly not be embarrassed. He's in enough shape to swim competitively."
Bowman also said that Phelps has particularly enjoyed the ability to swim without all of the pressure that has been on him in recent years.
"He enjoys the training and being physically fit. He just kind of wants to see where he's at. It's more really for fun. It's been nice for me to see him swim just for the joy of it really."
Some Olympians indicated to the Associated Press that Phelps's news was not just surprising but also a pleasant surprise to the entire sport.
"He kept it pretty much under wraps," Jessica Hardy said. "Even if he's not at peak performance, it's great for the sport and each athlete particularly to keep learning from him. I don't think anyone wants to put pressure on him. He's accomplished everything you pretty much can. It's just great to see what else you can do."
What do you think about the idea of Michael Phelps returning back to competition? Will he be as great as he once was or has he already peaked? Feel free to let us know what you think in the comments section located down below.