Michael Phelps Sounds off on Swimming Suspension

Copyright 2009 Bryan Bedder / Getty Images
Olympic great Michael Phelps is speaking out about his three-month suspension from competitive swimming, a decision that came down after a controversial photo surfaced depicting Phelps allegedly smoking from a bong.

"It's not my decision. It's theirs," Phelps tells the Associated Press of USA Swimming's suspension determination. "I have nothing to say, but if that's what they want to do, that's their choice. It's something that USA Swimming came up with. It's fair. Obviously, for a mistake you should get punished."

"It was bad and stupid judgment, and something I'll always live with," Phelps says about his actions in the photograph.

Phelps also talks about how his mother, Debbie Phelps, responded to the news.

"Mom wasn't happy," Phelps says. "She's been supportive through it, but wasn't happy."

As for what the fallout may mean for his 2012 Olympic plans, Phelps tells the AP, "I'm taking it step by step, day by day. There's still a long way between now and then," he said. "But I'm back here, I'm training for who knows what yet. But I'm back in the water, doing the thing I love."

The suspension means Phelps cannot compete until early May -- two months before the world championships in Rome this July.

Phelps also thanked those who have sent him messages of support.

Published 2/6/09 by the Insider