Michael Phelps became the most decorated Olympian ever last summer at the 2012 Games in London, winning six medals to give him 22 for his career. But he said he never would have competed last year if not for Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis.
Phelps, a Baltimore native, was on the sidelines Sunday during the Ravens’ 28-13 AFC Championship Game victory over the Patriots, and after the game told Yahoo Sports how much of an inspiration Lewis is.
“I think he’s probably the most inspirational person I’ve ever met in my entire life. A lot of people don’t know this, but he was one of the biggest reasons why I came back for four more years. Just some of the things that we have talked about, and he’s helped me get through, I can’t be more happier,” Phelps said.
Phelps, 27, was contemplating retiring before the 2012 Games, but after talking to Lewis, decided to participate. Now, he is cheering on his friend, who has announced this will be his last season.
Lewis’ final game will be Feb. 3 in New Orleans, and Phelps hopes he goes out with the second Super Bowl victory of his career.
“I want him to have one more shot, and he’s got it. It’s our year. It’s our year,’’ Phelps said. “I’ve had many talks with him, and to be able to see what he’s gone through and to come back one more time his last year … he is fired up.’’