I've never heard that about Phelps, but then I've no interest in swimming. Interesting.
There's different levels, what separates you and me for instance from a guy playing non league, from a guy in the championship all the way up to the elites in sport who obviously have that certain mental drive to make the best of themselves and and physical advantage they have.
And being fortunate enough to have a chance to participate and enjoy a sport that you are physically built for.
There's a reason only a very small percentage of people go on to be the elite, and for me a gold medal in the Olympics qualifies as elite, it's not easy.
There's so many components that go in to make it a success it's not just one single issue.