USA Olympian swimmer Michael Phelps could be reinstated

22-time US Olympic medalist Michael Phelps could be reinstated in time for the World Championships this summer.

Michael Phelps is the most successful USA swimmer ever. But he’s also had some issues out of the pool.

He was arrested in 2014 for driving under the influence, at which point USA Swimming decided to suspend him for six months as punishment.

His six-month ban is nearly up, yet USA Swimming had previously ruled him out of the World Championships, which take place in July and August. But that is now in question.

Bonnie Ford and Wayne Drehs of ESPN.com have reported that consideration is being given to reinstate Phelps for the preeminent event that is not the Olympics.

More from Swimming

USA Swimming executive director Chuck Wielgus commented to Ford and Drehs, “It’s complicated, but there are ways in which it could happen. There’s a pathway for things to be reconsidered–or considered.”

Drehs was obviously non-committal about Phelps’ reinstatement since it is not his decision alone, and apparently no decision has been made. But the 22-time Olympic medalist has been working out and preparing as if he will be reinstated.

USA Swimming teammate Tyler Clary would like to see Phelps compete this summer in Kazan, Russia.

“He’s vital. I don’t see myself as being a competitor at his level in the 200 IM, and I don’t have the same chance of getting a medal.”

At 29 years of age currently, it is possible this could be Phelps’ final opportunity at the World Championships, and the 2016 Summer Olympics would almost certainly be his last opportunity to medal at the sport’s preeminent competition.

While there have been other marquee swimmers in USA history, none have been as consistently as dominant as Phelps. As a result of Phelps’ presence, the US has largely dominated world competition over the last decade.

At 6’4″, 194 pounds and a ton of natural yet unique athleticism, Phelps is able to do things in a pool few humans ever could do. In the 2004 Summer Olympics he won six gold medals with two bronze.

In 2008, he swept his entire slate, going a perfect 8-for-8 in gold medals.

In 2012, he cut back his program, but won four golds and two silvers.

In the 2008 Olympics Phelps voluntarily underwent nine performance enhancement tests and passed every time. He briefly retired following the 2012 Olympics but announced he’d return to the sport last year.

He recently announced his engagement to Miss California USA 2010 Nicole Johnson. The two first dated in 2007, apparently broke up and reunited and are now preparing to take their vows.

More from FanSided

Home/Swimming