"Paris wasn't enough"- Adam Peaty opens up on taking crucial advice from Michael Phelps about his swimming future amid retirement concerns

Michael Phelps recently provided Adam Peaty with advice that could steer the British swimmer's future. The two athletes discussed the challenges of continuing in competitive swimming. Peaty sought guidance on whether to aim for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after his silver-medal performance at the 2024 Paris Games.

The three-time Olympic gold medalist shared that his 20 to 30-minute conversation with the swimming legend offered clarity about his feelings toward the sport. Peaty recalled asking Phelps, who retired and made comebacks twice, about the demands of returning to elite competition. The Olympic swimming legend urged him to set aside distractions and focus on what his heart truly wants, delivering a perspective shaped by years of experience.

In a January 2025 interview with High Performance, shared on Instagram, the silver medalist reflected on the exchange, admitting that his heart tells him Paris wasn't enough. He described how the advice resonated deeply, helping him confront his internal debate about retirement and whether his passion for swimming still burns brightly.

"I spoke to Michael Phelps for about 20, 30 minutes. I just saw him. I goes, You've retired two times, what did it take to bring you back? Because I am in the situation now where I am like, do I go for LA? And he goes, Basically, forget all the b*llsh*t. What does your heart tell you? And my heart says that Paris wasn't enough. I don't want to end in Paris," he said.

Peaty further acknowledged the challenges of competing at the international level, reflecting on the extensive effort required to prepare for the Paris Olympics. Despite securing a silver medal in the 100m breaststroke, he voiced frustration over the circumstances surrounding his performance. He cited the impact of COVID-19 on his health and training during a critical phase, which significantly disrupted his preparation.

Adam Peaty is a three-time Olympic champion and five-time Olympic medalist. In 2021, he became the first British swimmer to successfully defend an Olympic title in the 100m breaststroke. He also claimed 12 World Championship medals. At the 2024 Paris Games, he added to his accolades with a silver medal.

Michael Phelps and Adam Peaty cross paths at the F1 Grand Pix in Las Vegas

Adam Peaty at the Olympic Games-Paris 2024 - Source: Getty

In November 2024, Adam Peaty reflected on his experience at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, where he reconnected with Michael Phelps. The event in Paradise, Nevada, marked a significant moment for the 30-year-old swimmer as he took a break following his third consecutive appearance at the 2024 Paris Games.

During the event, Peaty shared his memories on Instagram. He captioned the post, giving fans a glimpse of his meeting with Phelps at the event.

"Great to catch up @m_phelps00. Excited for Race Day."

The British swimmer sees the American swimming legend as a source of inspiration. In an April 2024 interview with Sky Sports, Peaty shared how Michael Phelps' experience with ADHD has motivated him, describing him as an incredible athlete, person, and role model.