Gold medalist and all-around sports hero Michael Phelps is in the midst of what might be a decisive moment in his career: a scandal, according to some. A photo of Phelps puffing on a bong has surfaced, and las malas lenguas are all about taking him down for it. As is to be expected, the U.S. Olympic Committee isn’t happy:

The United States Olympic Committee, which Jan.22 named Phelps its Male Athlete of the Year, issued a statement saying it was “disappointed” in Phelps’ behavior.

“Michael is a role model, and he is well aware of the responsibilities and accountability that come with setting a positive example for others, particularly young people. In this instance, regrettably, he failed to fulfill those responsibilities.

As also was to be expected, Phelps has apologized, saying:

“I engaged in behavior which was regrettable and demonstrated bad judgment,” Phelps said in a statement released by Octagon, his management firm, and posted on his Facebook site. “I’m 23 years old, and despite the successes I have had in the pool, I acted in a youthful and inappropriate way, not in a manner that people have come to expect from me. For this, I am sorry. I promise my fans and the public – it will not happen again.”

What is he apologizing for? Pot is most definitely not a performance enhancing substance and what he does in his free time is none of our business, is it? Unless you consider it fuel for his overactive appetite…

What do you think? Is smoking pot something athletes should have to apologize for?

Via / Baltimore Sun

Image via Gawker