As a 14-year-old, Whitney Phelps was a national champion in swimming. She took part in the 1994 world championships and at the 1996 US Olympic trials in Indiana, ranked #1 in the 200m butterfly. An injury prevented her from securing her berth for the Atlanta Olympics. Her swimming career soon ended in tears, disappointment, and pain. Her brother walked up to her and said: “One day, I will make it to the Olympics.” Michael Phelps ended up winning 22 Olympic medals (18 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze), the highest for an individual.
Image source – Baltimore Sun and Getty Images
