Phelps's Drug-use Has Its Consequences

Olympic gold-medalist Michael Phelps was recently criticized for a picture that was taken before his Olympic success. The 23-year-old athlete was shown inhaling what appeared to be marijuana from a smoking pipe, an image that doesn't sit well with the media.

The Associated Press reports that Phelps has lost his financial support and has been suspended from competition for three months by USA Swimming. The federation says this was done as a way to send a message to Phelps about how he has disappointed his many fans.

Phelps has lost support from other companies, particularly Kellogg, who dropped the swimmer as their official spokesperson for corn flakes. "Michael's most recent behavior is not consistent with the image of Kellogg. His contract expires at the end of February and we have made a decision not to extend his contract," said a representative of the company, as reported by People Magazine.

Not all of Phelps's supporters have left him hanging. People Magazine reports that Speedo, Omega watch and Visa have stuck by the athlete's side throughout the controversial situation.

Phelps has issued an apology to the public. "I acted in a youthful and inappropriate way, not in a manner people have come to expect from me."