"I want to prove to the whole world that they are wrong. I believe that if I could be by my son's side, he would definitely be able to achieve his dreams." Debbie said during an interview with an American magazine. A mother's love eventually creates a miracle.
At the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Michael Phelps shocked the world by winning eight gold medals. However, this time, the news that shocked the world was not a positive one. On January 31, the British website News of the World published a headline story exposing the "eight-gold king" smoking. The report detailed the exact time and place the photo was taken, even providing evidence by noting that Phelps was wearing the same watch he had worn at major events. Previously, Phelps' team had attempted to contact the newspaper to prevent the photo's publication.
According to reports, the photo was taken on November 6, 2008, when Phelps attended a gathering with friends at the University of California. The provider of the photo was one of the attendees. This witness told News of the World, "He began losing control from the moment he arrived at the party. If he continues in this state, I find it hard to believe he can win any more gold medals."
Following the Olympics, Phelps' personal life could be described as "decadent." He spent much of his time in nightclubs, flirting with young women, and indulging in heavy gambling in Las Vegas. The swimming star seemed unfazed by this hedonistic lifestyle, appearing almost immersed in the thrill of the night.