Sports star confesses he was arrested for drunk driving

Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps was arrested for drunk-driving early yesterday morning, he revealed on social media.

“Earlier this morning, I was arrested and charged with DUI, excessive speeding and crossing double lane lines,” read the statement posted on his Twitter and Facebook pages.

“I understand the severity of my actions and take full responsibility. I know these words may not mean much right now but I’m deeply sorry to everyone I have let down.”

Most fans were quick to reassure Michael, with comments like, “Fortunately no one got hurt. Learn from this and don't do it again” and “”Get yourself cleaned up and keep going. You are a role model, but you're also human.”

Others weren’t so kind:

 

The champion sports star was reportedly pulled over by police around 1.40am for driving at a speed of almost 40 miles (64 km) over the speed limit in his Range Rover.

Michael then failed his sobriety test and was taken into police custody at a local station. His blood alcohol level was nearly twice the legal limit, according to reports.

The 29-year-old gold medallist has been in legal trouble for drunk driving before. Back in 2004, when he was just 19, he was also caught for a DUI charge. At the time he apologised, saying he “made a mistake.”