Michael Phelps Disappointed with US Men's Swimming Performance at Paris Olympics

Legendary swimmer Michael Phelps has expressed disappointment over the performance of the US men's swimming team at the Paris Olympics, highlighting the growing competitive landscape in the sport.

Legendary American swimmer Michael Phelps has expressed disappointment over the performance of the US men's swimming team at the Paris Olympics, highlighting the growing competitive landscape in the sport.

Michael Phelps Disappointed with US Men's Swimming Performance at Paris Olympics

Phelps, who won a record 23 Olympic gold medals during his career, told USA Today that he was concerned about the team's prospects in four years when Los Angeles hosts the 2028 Olympics.

"For me as a whole, I was pretty disappointed to see the U.S. swimming results," Phelps said. "Obviously, there were a few standout swims. And those you have to recognize."

Michael Phelps Disappointed with US Men's Swimming Performance at Paris Olympics

"But as a whole, I think we have some work to do."

Phelps believes the U.S. no longer holds a competitive advantage over other countries in swimming.

Michael Phelps Disappointed with US Men's Swimming Performance at Paris Olympics

"For me, one of the things that I’ve always said over the last couple years is the rest of the world is catching up," Phelps said.

"I think a lot of the things that we’ve done as a country for so long, the other people are catching up. They’re doing the same thing."

The pool closed at the Paris Olympic Aquatic Centre with the U.S. men's team earning one individual gold medal, their lowest tally since the 1956 Games.

Bobby Finke set a world record in the 1,500-meter freestyle to win gold and help the U.S. avoid a shutout.

"Bobby Finke, last night, swimming. That was unbelievable," Phelps said. "I have chills right now talking about it. That was one of the greatest swims in the Olympics, in my opinion."

Despite Finke's heroics, Phelps believes the U.S. needs to make significant improvements to remain a dominant force in swimming.

"I think we need to really take a step back and look at what we're doing and see how we can get better," Phelps said.

"I think the rest of the world is starting to catch up and we need to be prepared for that."

Team USA did take gold in the 4x100-meter freestyle relay and silver in the 4x100 medley relay, but these were the only individual gold medals won by the men.

Overall, the American swimmers won 28 medals, with Katie Ledecky leading the way on the women's side. Team USA won a total of eight golds, edging Australia's seven.