Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps was arrested early Tuesday morning in Maryland for driving while under the influence.
After he was released, Phelps took to his Twitter Tuesday afternoon to issue an apology:
(1/3) Earlier this morning, I was arrested and charged with DUI, excessive speeding and crossing double lane lines.
— Michael Phelps (@MichaelPhelps) September 30, 2014
(2/3) I understand the severity of my actions and take full responsibility. — Michael Phelps (@MichaelPhelps) September 30, 2014
(3/3) I know these words may not mean much right now but I am deeply sorry to everyone I have let down.
— Michael Phelps (@MichaelPhelps) September 30, 2014
TMZ Sports was first to report the arrest. According to the report, Phelps was pulled over around 1:40 a.m. ET and failed a field sobriety test with a blood alcohol level that was twice the legal limit. He was originally pulled over for doing 84 miles per hour in a 45 mile-per-hour zone, but the officer noticed he was visibly intoxicated.
Phelps was charged with DUI, excessive speeding and crossing double lane lines. This is his second DUI, as he was also arrested in 2004 at the age of 19. He agreed to a plea deal that landed him on 18-months' probation.
Phelps is attempting to race in the 2016 Summer Olympics and has been racing in numerous events to get into shape. TMZ had previously tried reaching out to Phelps' representatives for comment, but they would not respond.
Phelps is the one of the most decorated athletes in Olympics history and has earned 22 total medals (18 gold, two silver, and two bronze) in three separate summer games.
Ryan Lochte, Phelps' Team USA swimming teammate, commented on the situation after the news broke.
"He just makes dumb decisions," Lochte told TMZ Sports. "He has so much money to get a driver. I even have a driver. Just stinks for the sport of swimming. But he will become smarter from this. Luckily he did not hurt himself or someone else."
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