Michael Phelps Is Reportedly Coming Out of Retirement

At the age of 28, Michael Phelps is reportedly going to end his retirement and return to the pool.

Photo Removed
Complex Original

Blank pixel used during image takedowns

Photo Removed

Following the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, Michael Phelps told ESPN that he's "done everything I ever wanted to do...and, at that point, it's just time to move on." Okay, maybe not. According to multiple reports, Phelps will compete in the Arena Grand Prix in Mesa, Ariz., which lasts from April 24-26. But don't call it a comeback...just yet. "I think he's just going to test the waters a little bit and see how it goes," Phelps' coach Bob Bowman said in an interview with The Associated Press. "I wouldn't say it's a full-fledged comeback." 

Bowman went on to say that Phelps is "pretty far" from being at his peak, even though the most decorated athlete in the Olympic history has been training from Monday through Friday at the North Baltimore Aquatic Club since last fall. "He can give a good effort and certainly not be embarrassed. He's in enough shape to swim competitively," Bowman added. 

Of course, people are already wondering if Phelps' return to the pool means we should pencil him in for the Rio de Janeiro Games in 2016. Let's not jump to conclusions. Baby steps, people. First, let's see how he performs next week and go from there. 

RELATED: A History of Great Athletes Who Retired (By Choice) During Their Prime

[via New York Times; ESPN]

Latest in Sports