Michael Phelps Regrets Bong Pic
From the archive: published Feb 1, 2009, 17 years ago. Details may have changed since.
Michael Phelps has responded to the scandal surrounding his bong pic by saying he regrets what he has done.
In a statement, Phelps said
“I engaged in behavior which was regrettable and demonstrated bad judgment. I’m 23 years old and despite the successes I’ve had in the pool, I acted in a youthful and inappropriate way, not in a manner people have come to expect from me. For this, I am sorry. I promise my fans and the public it will not happen again.”
Experts are saying that the damage is done, and along with a serious risk to his swimming career, the photo could cost him tens of millions in endorsements.
Phelps could be banned from swimming for up to 4 years if he proves positive to a drugs test, although it’s not clear yet whether the photograph alone would be sufficient evidence for a ban.