Michael Phelps Supports Son’s Interest in Swimming

In Irvine, California, Michael Phelps attended the Pan Pacific Championships alongside two of his sons, a decade after wrapping up his Olympic swimming career with 23 gold medals. Among his children, Beckett, aged 8, has shown an interest in swimming. Maverick, his 6-year-old brother, joined him at the event, while the eldest, Boomer, 10, took care of the youngest, Nico, 2, at home.

Beckett watched the competition with enthusiasm. Bob Bowman, Phelps’ longtime coach, who is affectionately known as ‘Grandpa Bob’ to the boys, offered Beckett some advice during the meet. Michael Phelps noted that Beckett possesses a sprinter-like stroke which differs from his own and admitted he is pleased by it.

The family is on the hunt for a swimming coach in Phoenix, where they reside, to nurture Beckett’s potential. Phelps expressed a supportive stance towards his son’s swimming interest, emphasizing his desire for Beckett to enjoy the process on his own terms. Phelps shared, “If he wants to be a swimmer, I will support it. I will never push him into it. I want him to become his own person. I just hope he has fun.”

Phelps shared insight into his journey, explaining some finer swimming techniques to Beckett. He noted, “I was like, ‘Dude, if you want to train hard and literally grind, this is the sport.’”

Michael Phelps began his own swimming journey at age 7 in Baltimore. Initially hesitant to put his face in the water, he joined a swim club to follow his older sisters and to channel his energy. He made his Olympic debut at 15 during the 2000 Sydney Games. Now, Phelps notices similarities between himself and Beckett, especially regarding emotional intensity. He noted, “He has a hard time turning the switch off, so when he gets angry, he gets angry. That was the same way I was, so stare at that black line and scream as loud as you possibly can.”