Irked by Cate Campbell’s Comment, Michael Phelps Teases Swimming Comeback at US Olympic Trials

Michael Phelps‘ long-standing rivalry with the Aussies dates back over a decade, featuring epic showdowns with the likes of Ian Thorpe and Chad le Clos. Now, with Team USA gearing up for the 2024 Olympic Trials, the competitive flames have been fanned once again. The latest spark? Four-time Olympic gold medalist Cate Campbell’s cheeky comments after Australia’s big win over the USA at the 2023 World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka.

At last year’s World Championships, Australia snagged more gold medals than the USA, prompting Campbell to throw some shade. “Such, such sore losers,” she quipped, savoring the moment as Australia came out on top for the first time at a major competition. Campbell didn’t hold back, reveling in how sweet it felt to beat America and enjoying the lack of the Star-Spangled Banner and “USA! USA!” chants.

When Michael Phelps saw Campbell’s comments in an NBC Olympics & Paralympics interview amid the ongoing 2024 US Olympic Swim trials he couldn’t hide his reaction. His face immediately twisted into a scowl as Campbell’s words played: “…it is just so much sweeter beating America.” Her jabs about not missing the American anthem or the chants clearly struck a nerve.

“I appreciate your words, Cate,” Phelps said with heavy sarcasm once the video ended. Known for his fierce competitive spirit and numerous run-ins with Australian swimmers, Campbell’s remarks clearly hit home. “Somebody said that to me, I would lose it. I would literally make them eat every word they just said about me,” Phelps declared, his tone icy. Her words have even stirred something in him, making him consider a comeback just to prove his point.

With the Paris Olympics on the horizon, Phelps is set to make a return—not as a swimmer, but as part of NBC’s broadcast team. He got a taste of this new role when he joined Dan Hicks and Rowdy Gaines in the booth at the US Olympic Swimming Trials. Despite his excitement for this new chapter, the competitive fire still burns brightly.

During the live coverage of the swim trials at Lucas Oil Stadium, Phelps talked about Australia’s strong team, especially the women. He acknowledged their dominance but couldn’t hide his own competitive urge. “Watching the trials here, we’re ready. And I’m excited to see Paris,” Phelps said with a playful smile. “I mean I watched that video (Cate Campbell’s) again today, I want to get back in the pool and start going right now. It fires me up,” he shared.