Michael Phelps: Son Boomer made Rio Olympics ‘different’

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 25 (UPI) — New dad Michael Phelps says his son changed his experience at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

The 31-year-old former competitive swimmer discussed 3-month-old Boomer and the impact fatherhood had on his final Olympic games while appearing on Wednesday’s episode of America’s Got Talent.

“That moment was when all the emotions came out,” Phelps said of his 23rd gold medal win on Aug. 13. “I was finally happy with everything I did in my career and I was able to retire how I wanted to.”

“But most importantly, I had our first child in the stands, watching the race,” he added. “He wasn’t always awake, but it’s a completely different experience being able to look up and see your baby boy up there after a race.”

Phelps’ fiancée, Nicole Johnson, and Boomer were in the audience for the athlete’s AGT appearance. The trio had posed for a family photo in their pool on Phelps’ first day of retirement last week.

“There’s nothing like being back home! Great way to spend my first day in retirement! @boomerrphelps @nicole.m.johnson,” the Olympian captioned the picture.

Boomer had stolen the show during Phelps’ gold medal swim Aug. 7 in Rio. Phelps won a total of five gold medals at this year’s games, but announced his retirement the same day as his 23rd gold medal win.