Phelps could take part in worlds: reports

American is currently serving a six-month ban after a drink-driving violation

NEW YORK: Michael Phelps, the 18-time Olympic swim champion who agreed not to compete at this year's World Championships, could be reinstated for the meet by USA Swimming, according to reports.

USA Swimming executive director Chuck Wielgus said that he has had informal, preliminary conversations with Phelps about possibly competing in the world meet at Kazan, Russia, from July 24 to August 9.

"It's complicated, but there are ways in which it could happen," said Wielgus. "There's a pathway for things to be reconsidered, or considered."

Phelps, 29, is currently serving a six-month suspension after a drink-driving violation last September in Baltimore. His punishment was the ban, which ends early next month, and his agreeing not to compete at the worlds.

Wielgus said any decision on reinstating Phelps would be reviewed by national team director Frank Busch and USA Swimming's executive committee.

 

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