Michael Phelps at 2016 Olympic Swimming Team Training Camp in San Antonio: Legendary Swimmer Misses Fiancée's Birthday to Prepare for Rio Games
Determined to make a remarkable performance on his fifth and final Olympic appearance, Michael Phelps is currently training hard with Team USA at the 2016 Olympic Swimming Training Camp in San Antonio, Texas. The most decorated Olympian of all time even decided to skip the birthday party of her longtime fiancée, Nicole Johnson, to prioritize his rigorous preparations for the Rio Games.
Phelps was Absent at Johnson's Birthday Party
Johnson celebrated her 31st birthday on Thursday by throwing a pool party at their home in Arizona, according to the Daily Mail. The special event was attended by her close friends and her 2-month-old son with Phelps, Boomer. In a photo she posted on her Instagram account, it was noticeable that Phelps missed the special occasion.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
Phelps is currently spending a week with the Team USA at the 2016 Olympic Swimming Training Camp in San Antonio. Despite missing the event, the legendary swimmer made a sweet gesture by posting a message dedicated to Johnson on his Instagram account.
In his past interviews, Phelps has been very vocal about his love for Johnson. He told Sports Illustrated last year how Johnson helped him recover during the tough times of his life, particularly when he was charged with a DUI and was sent to a rehab.
Phelps With Team USA at 2016 Olympic Swimming Training Camp
Frank Busch, USA swimming national team director, told KSAT 12 that the men's and women's Olympic swimming teams are currently doing well on their training at The Northside Swim Center. He said that they made all the preparations, including the measures on possible Zika dangers
"This is a team. This is not about an individual choice. This is about representing the United States," Busch said. "There is no way in hell they're going to not go."
Busch also revealed that the members of the Team USA were all excited with the fact that they will be competing alongside with Phelps, the most decorated swimmer of all time. He added that the team considered Phelps as a veteran and an inspiration because of his remarkable achievements.
Is Phelps Ready For Rio Games?
"I know I have a lot to work on before Rio, but it's clear I'm stronger now than in 2012, physically and mentally," Phelps said in an interview with Olympics.org early this month. He added that there are several things that he needed to improve but he is fully aware that he has to swim faster to win a gold medal.
