Michael Phelps Biography: Age, Career, Olympic Records, Medals and Life Story
Quick Info →
Age:
40 Years
Profession:
Former Competitive Swimmer
Hometown:
Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
Bio/Wiki
| Full Name | Michael Fred Phelps II |
| Profession | Former Competitive Swimmer |
| Nickname | The Baltimore Bullet |
| Sport | Swimming |
| Specialization | Butterfly, Freestyle, Individual Medley |
Physical Stats & More
| Eye Colour | Hazel |
| Hair Colour | Dark Brown |
| Height | 6' 4" (193 cm) |
| Weight | 88 Kg |
Career
| Career Journey | Michael Phelps made his Olympic debut at the 2000 Sydney Olympics at the age of 15. He became the youngest American male swimmer to qualify for the Olympics. His breakthrough came at the 2004 Athens Olympics, where he won 6 gold and 2 bronze medals. He reached the peak of his career at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, winning 8 gold medals in a single Olympic Games. |
| Major Records | Most Decorated Olympian: Won 28 Olympic medals (23 gold, 3 silver, 2 bronze), the most in Olympic history. 8 Gold Medals at Beijing 2008: Created a record by winning eight gold medals in a single Olympic Games. World Records: Set numerous world records in swimming events during his career. World Swimmer of the Year: Won the award multiple times for his outstanding performances. Laureus World Sportsman of the Year: Honored for his exceptional achievements in sports. Presidential Medal of Freedom: Received this prestigious U.S. civilian honor in 2016. Swimming Hall of Fame: Recognized as one of the greatest swimmers of all time. |
Personal Life
| Date of Birth | June 30, 1985 |
| Age | 40 years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Baltimore, Maryland, United States |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Nationality | American |
Relationships & More
Family
| Wife/Spouse | Nicole Johnson |
| Father | Michael Fred Phelps (former police officer) |
| Mother | Deborah Sue Phelps (school principal) |
| Children | Boomer, Beckett, and Maverick |
Favourites
| Hobby | Golf, Fishing, Playing poker |
Money Factor
| Net Worth (approx) | $100 million |
Social Media
| Facebook | @michaelphelps |
| X | @MichaelPhelps |
Some Lesser Known Facts
- Michael Phelps started swimming at a young age: He began swimming when he was just 7 years old. His mother introduced him to the sport to help him overcome his fear of water and build confidence.
- He achieved six gold medals at the 2004 Olympics: At the Athens Olympics, Phelps won six gold and two bronze medals. This performance made him one of the biggest stars in swimming.
- He has an extraordinary wingspan: Michael Phelps has a wingspan of around 6 feet 7 inches, which is longer than his height. This physical advantage helped him glide through the water more efficiently.
- He is the most decorated Olympian in history: Phelps won 28 Olympic medals, including 23 gold medals. His record remains unmatched by any other athlete.
- He was diagnosed with ADHD as a child: Phelps was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) during childhood. Swimming helped him improve focus and channel his energy positively.
- His training required a high-calorie diet: During his peak career years, Phelps followed a diet designed to support his intense training schedule. His body required a large amount of energy because of his demanding workouts.
- He won his first Olympic gold medal at 19: Phelps claimed his first Olympic gold at the 2004 Athens Games. It marked the beginning of his legendary Olympic career.
- He competed in five Olympic Games: Phelps represented the United States from the 2000 Sydney Olympics to the 2016 Rio Olympics. His career at the top level lasted for more than 16 years.
- He broke dozens of world records: Throughout his swimming career, Phelps set numerous world records. His performances changed the way athletes viewed competitive swimming.
- He is known as “The Baltimore Bullet”: Phelps earned this nickname because of his hometown of Baltimore and his incredible speed in the pool. The name became popular among fans worldwide.
- He founded the Michael Phelps Foundation: His foundation works to promote water safety and healthy lifestyles among children. It also supports swimming education programs.
- He retired from swimming twice: Phelps first retired after the 2012 London Olympics but returned to competition. He officially retired after winning gold medals at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
