Michael Phelps returns poolside with his sons as 8-year-old Beckett eyes swimming

On the anniversary of Michael Phelps' retirement from Olympic swimming, the 23-time gold medalist was photographed alongside his two youngest sons at the Pan Pacific Championships in Irvine, California. Eight-year-old Beckett and six-year-old Maverick joined their father and mother Nicole to watch two days of the international swimming meet, which included competitors from the U.S., Australia, Canada, and Japan.

Phelps' oldest son, Boomer, age 10, kept their youngest son Nico, 2, entertained at home. Beckett showed great interest in the races, particularly admiring Phelps' sprinting style. The retired champion noted that Beckett possesses a sprinter-type stroke, which differs from Phelps' more endurance-based swimming technique.

Phelps, who began swimming at the age of 7 in Baltimore, explained to Beckett the benefits of the sport, encouraging him to train hard and channel his energy. Phelps made his Olympic debut at the 2000 Sydney Games when he was just 15 years old. The father-son trio discussed the importance of allowing Beckett to explore swimming on his own terms, without any pressure from Phelps. The family is currently researching coaches in Phoenix, where they reside, should Beckett decide to pursue swimming professionally.