It really wasn't a fair contest, as far as Michael Phelps adversaries were concerned.
The website swimswam.com named Phelps, the 22-time swimming Olympic medalist whose comeback in 2014 was marred by an arrest for drinking under the influence as its Person of the Year.
Michael Phelps wears a Speedo to a Christmas pajamas party
On the surface, the award seems to be odd in giving acclaim to an athlete, even of Phelps' stature, an honor after being guilty of a second DUI. His first DUI came when he was just 19..
But the website's disclaimer clearly outlines the criteria used in the naming of the award.
Judge accuses Michael Phelps of being "powerless over alcohol"
"The 'Person of the Year' award is given to the most significant person of 2014 in swimming. The award is not a judgment of good or bad, it is simply a judgment of significance and impact. Unlike our other awards, this one doesn't necessarily carry with it the tag of honor, though it certainly can. The purpose of the Person of the Year award is to recognize what drove the story of the sport, because that's what sports are: a story."
Phelps ended a near two-year retirement from swimming by competing in a meet at the Mesa Grand Prix in Mesa, Ariz., in April. He had announced his retirement after the 2012 Summer Olympics.
Swimswam.com reported that the meet sold out within 48 hours of the announcement.
Phelps received 18 months supervised probation last week for the DUI conviction that took place on Sept. 30. The judge warned Phelps that he was "powerless over alcohol" and ordered not to drink during his probation.
Phelps completed a 45-day alcohol treatment program in Arizona and seems to be in a good place, following his probation ruling.
He posted a photo of himself on his Instagram account with him wearing a Speedo to a pajama party.
Do you think Michael Phelps deserves a "Person of the Year" award? Comment below or tell us @SportsWN.
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