Michael Phelps, the greatest Olympian of all time, is back in the USADA drug testing pool and back at practice under longtime coach Bob Bowman. Both men maintain this is merely a means of staying fit, staying within striking distance of fighting shape. If Phelps feels race ready, hell test his speed--but dont call it a comeback. Yet.
Whatever the outcome, any swimming news surrounding the 22-time Olympic medalist is positive. Phelps could decide competition is a no-go and attend the 2016 Rio Olympic Games as an ambassador. His presence alone will make an impact, promoting his lifelong goal of growing the sport of swimming. However, if Phelps finds his feel for the water, his future is anyones guess.
My prediction, outlined in the video above, is based on Phelps age in 2016, the Olympic (and U.S. Olympic Trials) schedule of events, and Phelps desire to try new events. If he dives back into competition over the next two year and a half years, I think my six guesses are realistic.
100 meter freestyle: 47.4
100 meter butterfly: 50.2
200 meter IM: 1:53.8
I see Phelps making the 4x200 freestyle relay with a strong 200 free at US Olympic Trials, but he doesnt swim it individually in Rio. I think that would net him a spot on all three relays. With three individual events, Phelps would race for Olympic hardware six times at the 2016 Olympic Games.
If Michael Phelps makes a comeback, what are your guesses?
This is a Gold Medal Media production presented by SwimOutlet.com (). Host Gold Medal Mel Stewart is a 3-time Olympic medalist and the co-founder of SwimSwam.com ().