The U.S. men’s swimming team at the Paris Olympics left Michael Phelps “disappointed.”
The 23-time Olympic gold medalist shared his thoughts on Team USA’s performance.
“For me as a whole, I was pretty disappointed to see the U.S. swimming results,” Phelps told USA Today. “Obviously, there were a few standout swims. And those you have to recognize.”
Phelps is worried about the team’s future for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. He thinks the U.S. has lost its competitive edge in swimming.
“For me, one of the things that I’ve always said over the last couple years is the rest of the world is catching up,” Phelps said. “I think a lot of the things that we’ve done as a country for so long, the other people are catching up. They’re doing the same thing.”
The U.S. men’s team won only one individual gold at the Paris Olympic Aquatic Centre. This was the first time since 1956 they ended with just one individual gold medal.
Bobby Finke won gold in the 1,500-meter freestyle, setting a world record. He helped the U.S. avoid a shutout.
“Bobby Finke, last night, swimming. That was unbelievable,” Phelps said. “I have chills right now talking about it. That was one of the greatest swims in the Olympics, in my opinion. Being able to break that world record in the matter that he did it. Just taking it out, challenging the other guys just to make a move. He was prepared.”
The U.S. men’s team has won at least one individual gold in every Olympics since 1900, also held in Paris.
Team USA won gold in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay. They got silver in the 4×100 medley relay, an event they’ve dominated recently.
American swimmers won 28 medals overall. Katie Ledecky led the women’s side. Team USA won eight golds, edging Australia’s seven.