Olympic swimming icons Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte have voiced strong criticism of the current US swimming team's performance, calling for a significant improvement to reclaim their former glory.
The duo, who have collectively won 28 Olympic medals, expressed their concerns during a recent interview, highlighting the team's struggles in international competitions. "We need to do better," Phelps stated bluntly. "The standards we set are not being met."
A Call for Higher Standards
Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, emphasised the importance of maintaining the USA's reputation as a swimming powerhouse. "When I was competing, we dominated. That's not happening right now," he said.
Lochte echoed these sentiments, pointing to the lack of consistency among current team members. "It's not just about talent; it's about discipline and dedication," he added.
Lilly King Weighs In
Current team member Lilly King also shared her thoughts, acknowledging the criticism but defending her peers. "We're working hard, but there's always room for improvement," King said. "The legacy of swimmers like Michael and Ryan is something we all aspire to."
Despite the tough words, both Phelps and Lochte expressed optimism about the team's potential. "They have the talent," Phelps noted. "They just need to harness it."
The Road Ahead
With the next Olympics on the horizon, the pressure is on for the US swimming team to step up their game. Will they rise to the challenge? Only time will tell.
