Michael Phelps is a record-setting Olympic swimmer, which is one reason why he feels a comeback at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio is not necessary.
According to Yahoo.com, Phelps was speaking at the Laureus World Sports Awards in Rio de Janero and told reporters that he is happy in retirement and that he does not have plans at competing in the 2016 games. Rumors have been flying all year about what Phelps will do and despite his admission, some in the media still think he will swim.
"I am having fun. I love being retired, I can't stress it enough," Phelps said during a swimming event for underprivileged children at the Rocinha slum. "I am happy, smiling and more relaxed. It's something that I have wanted for a long time and now I'm happy that I can make the most of it."
The 27-year-old star has won a record number of gold medals and he also won the AP Male Athlete of the Year again last year over names like LeBron James and Usain Bolt. Phelps said he spent time seeing sights in Rio, including the beaches and other landmarks.
Phelps said he was done with swimming after the London games, where he won six medals, including four gold's. He has won 22 in his career, including 18 gold medals. Phelps has been concentrating on golf and he played in some tournaments and has also appeared on the Golf Network for Hank Haney's show "The Haney Project".
Phelps also signed a deal with a golf company and took spring training hacks with his hometown Orioles. Phelps was also nominated against Tim Tebow in the Kid's Choice Awards on Nickelodeon for the best male athlete.
"This is my second time here and it's very impressive. I've never seen anything like it. The people here are incredible. Yesterday my agent and I decided to go to the beach and it was great to see how everybody seems to be having fan and is so relaxed. It's not something you see too often. It's going to be something special for Rio to host the Olympics and the World Cup with this type of spirit," he said.
