Michael Phelps finishes second in his return to swimming after 20 months

Michael Phelps (R), who finished second to Ryan Lochte

“Making a comeback is one of the most difficult things to do with dignity.” – Greg Lake

Michael Phelps, the most celebrated Olympian swimmer of all time, made a determined comeback to his passion after a 20-month-long retirement. In the first event of his return in the 100m butterfly final at the Arena Grand Prix, he finished second in the final on Thursday, with compatriot Ryan Lochte emerging the winner.

While a lot of people expected Phelps to win the event, those expectations were perhaps a tad unrealistic, and his second place finish was still impressive.

The 22-time Olympic medal champion recorded a timing of 52.13 seconds as against his competitor Lochte who recorded 51.93 seconds. Third in the list of timings was Jason Dunford of Kenya with 52.08 seconds.

There was plenty to smile about for the champion despite his loss. The 28-year-old Phelps’ time recorded at the final was faster than his preparatory record of 52.84. Also, with this time he can qualify for the US national championship that will be held in August, as the standard timing required for that is 54.79.

However, Phelps is still undecided whether he wants to keep swimming. “It’s one meet; it’s one race,” he said. “It’s a long way from whether I decide to continue or not.”

Meanwhile, Lochte expressed his delight at being challenged by the legendary swimmer again. “I probably wouldn’t have gone that time if Phelps wasn’t in that pool with me,” he said. “We push each other all the time.”