Phelps 2016 Olympics Rumors False; Michael Phelps Denies Return To Rio De Janeiro Olympics, Saying “I’m Done”

Michael Phelps appeared in Rio de Janeiro, the site of the 2016 Olympics, on Monday for the Laureus World Sports Awards.

Phelps confirmed that he would not be participating in the 2016 Olympics, at least as a competitor.

After meeting children from Rio's Rocinha favela (slum) on the sidelines of the awards ceremony, Phelps said, "I'm done, I'm done!"

During his visit to a Rocinha sports complex, Phelps swam with local children before talking about his career.

"I am having fun. I love being retired, I can't stress it enough," Phelps said during the swimming event benefit for children.

He continued, "I am happy, smiling and more relaxed. It's something that I have wanted for a long time and now I'm happy that I can make the most of it."

Phelps was happy to compliment the city of Rio, as it will host the upcoming 2016 Olympic games.

He seemed particularly enamored with the beautiful and famous Rio beaches, stating, "This is my second time here and it's very impressive. I've never seen anything like it. The people here are incredible. Yesterday my agent and I decided to go to the beach and it was great to see how everybody seems to be having fun and is so relaxed."

"It's not something you see too often. It's going to be something special for Rio to host the Olympics and the World Cup with this type of spirit," Phelps explained.  

The Olympic record holder for most swimming medals, with 22 total and 18 gold, isn't finished receiving awards.

Phelps was awarded with the first Laureus Exceptional Achievement Award after winning six of his total medals in London last summer. He surpassed Soviet gymnast Larisa Latynina for the most all-time Olympic medals won.

"It has been an amazing career and it is crazy to think that it is over. But I've done everything that I wanted to do in sport. I wanted to change swimming and take it to a level, and I have. But I will continue to be a part of sport and help grow sports. That is a goal and a passion of mine," Phelps concluded.