Michael Phelps is not getting as much mileage out of being a golden boy as one would expect.
The Olympic gold medalist, who became the object of adoration during last year’s Summer Olympics, was recently photographed apparently smoking marijuana from a bong at a house party. Phelps has apologized for the photo, attempting to blame the picture on youthful indiscretion.
Phelps, whose youthful indiscretion also led to a DUI following the 2004 Athens Olympics, has received support from several corners, including the International Olympic Committee and sponsors Omega and Speedo. However, not all of the reaction has been positive.
Cereal giant Kellogg has announced that it will not renew Phelps’ endorsement contract after it expires at the end of this month. The company says Phelps’ apparent marijuana use is inconsistent with its family-friendly image. Meanwhile, Phelps has been suspended for three months from USA Swimming, during which he will be banned from competition and from receiving financial support.
In a statement, USA Swimming says it disciplined Phelps “because he disappointed so many people, particularly the hundreds of thousands of USA Swimming member kids who look up to him as a role model and a hero.”
