Michael Phelps Unsure Over Relay Spot
Team USA will be hoping to regain their Olympic title in the 4x100m freestyle, with Michael Phelps' involvement yet to be decided.
Michael Phelps was keen to give nothing away regarding his possible participation in Team USA's 4x100 metre freestyle squad.
The most-decorated Olympian of all time with 22 medals to his name, Phelps was part of the States' team in the event in each of past two Games and is again in contention in Rio after coming out of retirement.
As an individual event, the 100m freestyle is not one of Phelps' favoured races, but the 31-year-old - America's flag bearer in Rio - does harbour hopes to be part of the team again in Sunday's heats and final.
"I do know that the coaching staff will put out the four fastest guys, whoever that is," Phelps is quoted by NBC.
"I'm looking forward to either watching or being in that race.
"That's something I've had the privilege to be a part of since 2004, and I'm hoping to have the opportunity again.
"It's always super-fast and there are always some wild, crazy splits that take place."
Phelps and his team won gold in Beijing ahead of France, but the Europeans got their revenge four years later in London, but the American says the dominant pair could face a new challenge in Rio.
"You can probably pick three or four teams that are going to have a chance to win that relay," Phelps said.
"The Australians made a significant charge over the past couple of years with their men's and women's teams combined. A lot of younger guys really stepped up, and that brings more excitement to the sport."