Michael Phelps suspended by USA Swimming for six months

Michael Phelps has been suspended from competition for six months and will be barred from the 2015 world championships as a result of his recent DUI arrest, U.S. swimming officials announced Monday.

USA Swimming cited the 29-year-old for violating its code of conduct and said it would withhold his monthly stipend for the period of the suspension.

“Michael’s conduct was serious and required significant consequences,” said Chuck Wielgus, the governing body’s executive director.

The most-decorated athlete in Olympic history, Phelps was arrested early Tuesday morning after driving erratically at high speeds in Baltimore, his hometown. He subsequently apologized via social media and began a six-week rehabilitation program.

“Michael has publicly acknowledged the impact of his decisions, his accountability especially due to his stature in the sport and the steps necessary for self-improvement,” Wielgus said. “We endorse and are here to fully support his personal development actions.”

Phelps retired after the 2012 London Olympics but has launched a comeback, with a goal of competing in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.