American swimmer Michael Phelps, who made a name for his 22 Olympic medals, was suspended after he was arrested for driving under the influence (DUI). This is the second time that Phelps was arrested for the same violation.
According to ESPN, USA Swimming decided to ban Phelps for six months and will not allow him to join the 2015 FINA World Swimming Championships that will happen in Russia on August 2015.
Phelps' trial for his DUI charge is scheduled on November 19. During his first arrest in 2004 he pleaded guilty for a lesser charge of 18 months probation with $250 fine, and was required to deliver speeches on three high schools about alcohol awareness.
On his Twitter account, Phelps said that he lapse in judgment and willing to enter in a rehab, "I'm going to take some time away to attend a program that will provide the help I need to better understand myself."
Phelps said that swimming is a major part of his life but right now he realized he needs to focus his attention to himself.
The executive director of USA Swimming, Chuck Wielgus, is happy with Phelps plans to enter himself on a rehab program, "His self-recognition and commitment to get help exhibit how serious he is to learn from this experience."
Phelps was arrested at Baltimore last week for over speeding and crossing a double-lane lines and when he was tested, it was found out that his alcohol level is .14 higher than the .08 allowed legal limit.
Phelps has become well-known after winning 22 Olympic medals with 18 gold and was considered as the most decorated Olympian. He retired after 2012 London Olympics but made a comeback only this year to represent US in Pan Pacific championships where he won three gold medals.