Michael Phelps Leaves Olympics Opening Ceremony Early

The 2016 Rio Summer Olympics Opening Ceremony is currently underway but it appears that flag bearer Michael Phelps left the ceremony early!

This was coincidentally the first time that the 30-year-old Olympic gold medalist had walked in the ceremony, as in the past he was scheduled to compete the following day.

This year, Michael is set to compete in the U.S. men’s 4×100-meter freestyle relay on Sunday (August 8), so his early departure could be to prepare for the race. Often Olympians competing early in the games do not wish to stand for the hours-long ceremony.

Additionally, the United States team walked in the ceremony earlier than usual due to the Portuguese translation of the country’s name.