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Rio de Janeiro

Less than a year ago Olympian Michael Phelps announced on social media that he was busted for drunk driving. Not once, but twice.

It is hard to believe but there was a time not too long ago when the champion swimmer’s coach was worried about what state he would find Michael in when he showed up for training.

Following his DUI arrests, Michael went to rehab for treatment and also faced a six-month suspension from competitive swimming.

In a recent interview with the press though, the man with the most Olympic gold medals in history seems determined to but those days behind him, according to reports in People magazine.

At least until after the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil.

The 30-year old told the media this week, “Before I even went to court, I said to myself that I'm not going to drink until after Rio – if I ever drink again.”

While Michael will not be competing in the world championships due to his suspension, he will be competing this week in the U.S championships and has been determined to get himself back on track. He says that in the past he hasn't much that much effort into his sobriety:

"Going into 2008 and 2012, I didn't do that. I didn't say I was going to take a year off from drinking and not have a drink." 

“I go to bed earlier. I sleep more. I wake up every day and have a completely clear head. I don't feel like my head went through a brick wall.”

He admits that some days he is tempted to ditch the training and have a pint instead, he knows it will be worth the hard work in the end.

"I have a year left in my career," he said. "If I really want it bad enough, I will make that sacrifice." 

The 18-times gold medallist also announced his engagement to Nicole Johnson earlier this year. He has said that therapy has helped in confront his issues.

“I feel like I've learned so much about myself, who I truly am. I can honestly say there aren't many people who have seen who I really am."

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This is certainly one way to skip the crowds at Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Christ The Redeemer statue.

This video is not for the faint hearted!

 

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