If you are caught doping, you must be banned for life.

"If an athlete tests positive for a banned substance, they will be banned for life. There are no exceptions. Just one violation and you are out," Michael Phelps stated his strong opinion. He also emphasized that this is the need for strict rules to protect the integrity of the Olympics.

Michael Phelps

Michael Phelps' statement comes after reports from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and World Aquatics (FINA), which revealed that 23 Chinese swimmers tested positive for banned substances ahead of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (competing in 2021). Notably, nine of these swimmers won medals at the 2024 Olympics, and contributed to the resounding success of the men's 4x100m medley relay team when they dethroned the US team that had dominated the event since 1980, according to Spanish newspaper Marca .

"It is unacceptable that all athletes do not have to undergo the same rigorous testing. That undermines the integrity of this sport (swimming). People who are willing to take such risks (using doping) do not deserve to compete," Michael Phelps expressed his concerns about fairness in competition, especially at the Olympics.

"Throughout my career, I have faced accusations of cheating. To prove my dedication to the competition and my innocence, I have undergone extensive testing - blood and urine tests - on a weekly basis," Michael Phelps shared.

He also affirmed that he never thought of using banned substances to enhance his performance, and was proud of his achievement of winning 23 gold medals at the Olympics (a total of 28 medals), becoming the athlete with the most medals in Olympic history.

Michael Phelps expressed concern about the integrity of swimming, especially at the Olympics, which have been tarnished by doping allegations.

"I achieved my success the right way. You can reach the top without cheating," Michael Phelps affirmed. He also said: "When I was competing, I often felt that the competition was unfair. I doubted some opponents, but that was out of my control."

"So to avoid this situation, which is still controversial, we need a new and unified approach to testing (doping) worldwide. And anyone caught, should face an immediate lifetime ban," Michael Phelps suggested.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/michael-phelps-neu-quan-diem-danh-thep-da-dinh-doping-phai-bi-cam-tron-doi-185240806112031429.htm