Michael Phelps Was In No Mood For Chirpy Reporter On U.S. Return

Part of being the world’s greatest swimmer ― with 23 Olympic gold medals ― involves dealing with the media, even when you don’t want to.

On his return from the Rio Games several days ago, Phelps was approached at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport by 3TV reporter Marc Liverman for “Good Morning Arizona.”

But Phelps, who had fiancee Nicole Johnson and young son Boomer in tow, wasn’t interested in conducting an interview after a long flight home. He firmly and politely shut down the journalist about as effectively as he did butterfly rival Chad le Clos during the competition.

“I’m not answering questions,” Phelps said. “...If you could give me my space.”

“I appreciate you guys coming but I’m trying to get my family home safe and that’s what matters the most,” he added.

To his credit, the reporter backed off. The anchors in the studio also cut Phelps some slack.

h/t For The Win

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