Michael Phelps

I would like to share with you my thoughts regarding the recent incident concerning super-swimmer and Olympic star Michael Phelps. The swimming sensation, in case you missed the news, was caught on camera smoking a bond of cannabis. It happened last November at a University of South Carolina house party. Soon after his photo appeared in the British tabloid news he made an official apology to his fans.

The question is: is he guilty as charged or are there circumstances that could diminish his behavior and excuse him from what he did?

I have read many different opinions on this matter and have decided to organized them in two groups.

On one hand he made a huge mistake. Yes, he was irresponsible and he put his career, reputation and future at risk. Also, it is not the first time he was exhibited such behavior -- he has also been caught for drunk driving. He is a celebrity and a public person, a role model and idol for millions of teenagers (I know, I have a teenage daughter) so he is expected to be mature and carry his glory with dignity. I have read that according to rules set out by the World Anti-Doping Agency athletes who are caught using cannabis face a ban of up to 2 years, which would, without a doubt, affect Phelps's career. In addition he is risking to lose many sponsorships, the public's trust, and possibly his income. Michael Phelps makes an estimated 5 million euros a year from deals made with 10 major companies. Some people would argue that this is a personal matter and that people shouldn't be judgemental of him based on his personal life. However, Michael Phelps isn't just anybody, his achievement (8 gold Olympic medals) is amazing and unique. He has definitely made a mistake and will have to suffer the consequences.

On the contrary, I think that we don't have to be so harsh on him. According to an old saying, the truth is always somewhere in the middle. We shouldn't ignore the fact that he is young (23 years of age) and hasn't had much experience in life. Also, he did apologize to the public for his doings. We all know that he has immense talent and potential and his success so far has been astonishing. I believe that his apology was sincere, that he regrets his behavior, and that he realizes the situation he has put himself in. Phelps needs support right now, and with it I think he will be able to pick himself up and get back on his feet.

I will Michael Phelps and his family all the best and hope that people will remember his success long after his pictures in the tabloids fade away.