Phelps suspended 6 months for DUI

Associated Press

Michael Phelps’ comeback took a major hit on Monday, with USA Swimming suspending the 18-time Olympic champion for six months and forcing him to withdraw from next year’s world championships.

Phelps also lost six months of funding from the sport’s national governing body as a result of his second DUI arrest.

The 29-year-old swimmer is banned from participating in USA Swimming-sanctioned meets through April 6, 2015.

USA Swimming said Phelps violated its Code of Conduct, and cited a section of its 2014 Rule Book in punishing him. Its executive committee approved the sanctions, which take effect immediately.

“Michael’s conduct was serious and required significant consequences,” said Chuck Wielgus, USA Swimming executive director. “We endorse and are here to fully support his personal development actions.”

Phelps can still train with his North Baltimore club, but he had already qualified for the world championships in Russia next August, which is the biggest international meet leading up to the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

Phelps came out of retirement earlier this year with his sights set on competing at a fifth Olympics in Rio.

His latest arrest came about a month after Phelps won three golds and two silvers at the Pan Pacific Championships in Australia.