The man many have called the greatest competitor in Olympic history faces global public scrutiny with the release of a private photograph.
Hi, Im Charlotte Bellis and youre watching newsy.com.
This is the photo the British tabloid News of the World first posted on their website which prompted American swimming sensation Michael Phelps to issue a public apology.
Were tracking coverage from News of the World, CNN, Times Online, Baltimore, Marylands WJZ-TV and others.
Lets first look at CNN, who brings us Phelps apology:
Im 23 years old, and I engaged in behavior which was regrettable and demonstrated bad judgment. I acted in a youthful and inappropriate way. For this, I am sorry. I promise my fans and the public it will not happen again. (CNN)
The controversy sparked discussion over whether the photo will cause Phelps to lose millions in endorsements.
In its original article, News of the World reports Phelps marketing agency - Octagon - tried persuading the tabloid not to run the photo:
[The agency] offered us an extraordinary deal not to publish our story, saying Phelps would become our columnist for three years, host events and get his sponsors to advertise with us. In return, he asked that we kill Phelps bong picture. (News of the World)
The UKs Times Online estimates Phelps endorsements currently at about $5 million dollars U.S. a year, but reports the photo could hurt his future prospects:
Marketing experts are predicting massive fallout and a quick exit by sponsors who could put an end to Phelpss dream of cashing in on his Olympic exploits.(Times Online)
In Phelps hometown of Baltimore, Maryland WJZ-TV talked to an advertising executive with a more optimistic view.
Long term, if he had problems it could hurt him. But right now at 23 its an indiscretion. Get over it. Move on. We got much bigger problems in the world. (WJZ-TV)
A writer on Forbes defends Phelps, saying:
We learned that a 23-year-old got high on a college campus But does that justify a tawdry tabloid gotcha, in which nothing is uplifted, nothing improved and in which private human experience is wielded as a public weapon? (Forbes)
Advertising journal Marketing Pilgrim used the Phelps incident to examine how quickly a persons Google reputation can be tainted with a surprising observation:
Google is already suggesting michael phelps smoking weed as an alternative search suggestion. (Marketing Pilgrim)
This is not the first time Michael Phelps has been forced to issue a public apology.
In 2004, he faced an 18-month probation for drunk driving.
What do YOU think? Is the photo of Michael Phelps a big deal? Should it affect his endorsements? Please share your thoughts with us, and please check out our sources.
Im Charlotte Bellis, for newsy.com, where multiple perspectives provide the real story.
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