I'm the same kind of guy before all this happened

I'm the same kind of guy before all this happened

Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, has often been quoted saying, "I'm the same kind of guy before all this happened." This statement speaks volumes about his humility, groundedness, and unwavering sense of self despite achieving unparalleled success in the world of competitive swimming.

Phelps burst onto the international swimming scene at the age of 15 during the 2000 Sydney Olympics, where he became the youngest male swimmer to make the U.S. Olympic team in 68 years. From that moment on, he embarked on a remarkable journey that would see him win a total of 28 Olympic medals, including 23 golds, over the course of his career. His dominance in the pool and his relentless pursuit of excellence made him a household name and a global icon.

Despite his incredible achievements and the fame and fortune that came with them, Phelps has always remained true to himself. He has never let the trappings of success change who he is at his core. He continues to be the same kind of guy he was before all the accolades and adulation came his way.

Phelps' humility is evident in the way he carries himself both in and out of the pool. He is known for his down-to-earth demeanor, approachability, and willingness to engage with fans and supporters. He has always been quick to credit his coaches, teammates, and support staff for his success, emphasizing that swimming is a team sport and that he could not have achieved what he did without their help.

Phelps' groundedness is also reflected in his commitment to giving back to the community and using his platform to raise awareness about mental health issues. In recent years, he has been open about his struggles with depression and anxiety, and he has become a vocal advocate for destigmatizing mental health challenges and promoting self-care and wellness.