Sports Headlines

Phelps Downplays Teammate's Comments On Work Ethic

Reporter: Associated Press

July 12, 2012

Michael Phelps has talked with Tyler Clary after his Olympic teammate questioned his work ethic and isn't worried about what anyone says.

Phelps told reporters Thursday at media day for the U.S. Olympic swimming team people can say what they want and that all he is focused on is swimming as fast as he can for his country. Phelps will compete in seven events at the London Games.

Clary told The Press-Enterprise in Riverside, Calif., he works harder than Phelps and sees the 14-time Olympic gold medalist as somebody ready to be beaten because of Phelps' lack of preparation. Clary, a first-time Olympian, said Thursday he regretted creating a distraction and should have kept his comments focused on himself.

Clary says there are no hard feelings between he and Phelps.