Michael Phelps Calls For Lifetime Ban For Doping Offenders

Former Olympic champion Michael Phelps, from the United States, walks onto the pool deck ahead of the evening session at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Sunday, July 28, 2024, in Nanterre, France. (AP Photo

Following a recent Chinese doping scandal, Olympic swimming legend Michael Phelps has reiterated his stance on imposing stricter sanctions on athletes who test positive for banned substances. Phelps emphasized his support for lifetime bans, stating that individuals caught doping should never be allowed to compete again.

The controversy arose after 23 Chinese swimmers tested positive for banned substances prior to the Tokyo Olympics. Despite the positive tests, the results were not disclosed until this year, with Chinese authorities attributing the findings to tainted food. Several of the implicated swimmers went on to win medals at the Paris Olympics, prompting criticism from athletes like British star Adam Peaty, who questioned the fairness of the competition.

Phelps, who holds a record 28 Olympic medals, expressed his belief that athletes who resort to doping compromise the integrity of sports and should face severe consequences. He recalled facing accusations of cheating throughout his career and voluntarily subjected himself to additional testing to prove his commitment to clean competition.

Advocating for a level playing field, Phelps highlighted the need for comprehensive anti-doping measures on a global scale. He stressed the importance of stringent testing protocols and emphasized the detrimental impact of doping on clean athletes who dedicate years of effort to their sport.

23 Chinese swimmers tested positive for banned substances before Tokyo Olympics.

Phelps supports lifetime bans for doping athletes.

Chinese authorities attributed positive tests to tainted food.

Several implicated swimmers won medals at Paris Olympics.

Adam Peaty criticized fairness of competition.

Phelps believes doping compromises sports integrity.

Since retiring from competitive swimming, Phelps has been actively involved in advocating for anti-doping reforms and raising awareness about mental health issues in sports. His recent testimony before the U.S. Congress underscored the urgency of addressing flaws in the current anti-doping system and implementing measures to uphold the principles of fair play.

Phelps' unwavering stance against doping serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining integrity in sports and preserving the spirit of the Olympic Games. As athletes strive for excellence on the global stage, Phelps urges a collective commitment to combatting cheating and upholding the values of honesty and fair competition.

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