After a six-month ban, swimmer Michael Phelps might finally be allowed to compete at the World Championships in Russia.
BBC Sport reported that the 18-time Olympic gold medalist, 29, was slapped with a six-month competitive ban in addition to being excluded from the World Championships in 2015 after being convicted with drunk driving in his hometown of Baltimore. He was sentenced to a one-year suspended imprisonment and 18 months of probation. It was his second drunk driving violation in the past decade.
Chuck Wielgus, USA Swimming director, said, "It's complicated, but there are ways in which it could happen. There's a pathway for things to be reconsidered - or considered."
During the ongoing suspension period, Phelps has been training in Baltimore. He also finished a treatment program lasting 45 days.
When his ban ends on April 6, Phelps might make a return at the US Grand Prix in Arizona from April 15 to 18. After the 2012 Olympics in London, the American previously announced that he will be retiring from competitive swimming. Later, he changed his decision and is currently preparing for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Phelps has so far qualified for the American team for the World Championships in the 100-meter freestyle, 200-meter medley and 100-meter butterfly. He will most likely participate in three relays.
ESPN reported that a representative from Phelps' management team initially did not comment on his planned participation in Russia. Later, two senior members of the U.S. national team supported his reinstatement. Tyler Clary said that he has no issues in giving up his 200 individual medley if Phelps were reinstated.
Clary said, "He's vital. I don't see myself as being a competitor at his level in the 200 IM, and I don't have the same chance of getting a medal."
Clary added, "USA Swimming's six-month suspension was appropriate and strong enough to convey that USA Swimming doesn't condone that kind of behavior from any of its members. Removing Michael from the world championship team, however, will have a negative effect on our team, and taking the term of his punishment into consideration, the meet falls well outside of that time frame."
USA Today reported that the World Championships will be held in Kazan, Russia from July 24 to August 9. With Phelps in the national team, the United States will definitely have an advantage and it will also be a good tune-up for Phelps, moving into the 2016 Olympics. The World Championships will be his best opportunity to compete against top international swimmers.