What challenge did Michael Phelps overcome before the 4x200m freestyle relay?

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Michael Phelps Overcame a Torn Swim Cap Before Winning 21st Olympic Gold

A torn swim cap presented a last-minute challenge for Michael Phelps prior to the United States' victory in the 4x200 metres freestyle relay at the Rio Olympics. Teammate Conor Dwyer provided his own cap, which he turned inside out to circumvent potential conflicts with rival sponsors, as Phelps wears apparel from his own MP brand, manufactured by Aqua Sphere. This incident occurred as Phelps was preparing to compete in the relay, an event where he ultimately secured his 21st Olympic gold medal.
Swim Cap Malfunction Before Relay

As Michael Phelps was preparing to put on his swim cap just before the start of the 4x200 metres freestyle relay final, it tore in half. This unexpected issue required a quick solution to ensure he could compete effectively in the water.
Teammate's Support and Sponsor Considerations

Following the malfunction, teammate Conor Dwyer, who had swum the opening leg of the relay, offered his own cap to Phelps. To avoid any issues with competing brands, Dwyer turned his cap inside out. This was a necessary precaution as Phelps wears his personal MP brand, a product of the Italian company Aqua Sphere.
Historical Context of Overcoming Adversity

This instance of overcoming a pre-race challenge is not unprecedented for Michael Phelps. Dwyer himself noted that Phelps has a history of succeeding despite significant adversity, referencing a past victory where Phelps won an Olympic gold medal without goggles. This suggests a pattern of resilience in the face of unexpected difficulties during major competitions.

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What challenge did Michael Phelps overcome before the 4x200m freestyle relay?

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