Olympic swimming icon Michael Phelps and his wife, Nicole Johnson, have expanded their family with the arrival of their fourth child, Nico Michael Phelps.

The joyous news was shared by the couple on social media, marking another milestone in their eventful life together.

Nico, born on Jan. 16, joins his three older brothers in the Phelps family, as the Daily Mail reported.

The Phelps family welcomed Nico Michael Phelps, their fourth son, on January 16, adding another member to their growing family.

The announcement was made on Instagram on Monday, featuring a heartwarming family photo. Phelps and Johnson, both 38, were pictured cradling their newborn, surrounded by love and excitement.

Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, and Johnson, a former Miss California, expressed their happiness at becoming a family of six.

A journey from the Olympics to family life

Phelps' journey from Olympic glory to fatherhood has been a remarkable one. After concluding his Olympic career in Rio in 2016, he has transitioned into a new phase of life, focusing on his family and personal growth. Nicole, equally accomplished in her own right, has been by his side through the highs and lows, adding strength to their bond.

Their relationship, which began in 2007, has seen its share of challenges. After meeting at the ESPYs, the couple experienced a breakup in 2012 but found their way back to each other two years later. Their engagement in 2015 was followed by marriage in 2016, solidifying their commitment to a shared life. The birth of their first child, Boomer, in 2016, was a testament to their enduring partnership.

The couple’s journey, punctuated by the birth of their sons Beckett in 2018 and Maverick in 2019, has been a blend of personal and public milestones. Their family's growth mirrors Phelps' evolution from a swimming legend to a dedicated family man, embracing the joys and responsibilities of fatherhood.

Embracing fatherhood and mental health advocacy

Michael Phelps has been vocal about the importance of fatherhood in his life. He cherishes family dinners at 5 pm, a routine that brings them together daily. His openness about struggling with depression and anxiety has also been significant, highlighting his commitment to mental health advocacy.

Phelps and Nicole have emphasized the importance of emotional openness in their household. They have been proactive in teaching their sons to understand and express their emotions, a lesson that Phelps values deeply. This approach to parenting reflects their commitment to raising emotionally aware and resilient children.

Nicole Phelps, discussing their approach to parenting and emotional health, said:

We don't hide from emotions. We teach them that daddy or mommy is having a moment and we need to either give them space or ask if they want a hug.

This philosophy underscores the couple's dedication to fostering a supportive and understanding family environment.

A celebration of new life and family support

The birth of Nico has been met with an outpouring of love and support from family, friends, and fans. Michael's sister, Hilary Phelps, shared her excitement and blessings for the newest member of the Phelps family. The couple's close circle, including celebrities such as Shanna Moakler, also expressed their joy and congratulations.

The arrival of Nico has captured the hearts of the public as well. Fans have playfully noted that the Phelps family now has enough members for a relay team, highlighting the unique blend of Olympic legacy and family growth. This sentiment was echoed by an Instagram commenter who celebrated Phelps' success in both his professional and personal life.

Michael Phelps, reflecting on his role as a father and the lessons he hopes to impart to his sons, shared:

It gives me a lot of hope. I just want them to be as prepared as they can be.

Phelps' focus on emotional preparedness and resilience is a cornerstone of his parenting approach, demonstrating his commitment to his children's well-being.

Conclusion

The Phelps family's journey is a story of triumph, resilience, and love. From the Olympic podium to the joys of parenthood, Michael and Nicole Phelps have navigated their path with grace and strength.

The birth of Nico Michael Phelps adds another chapter to their story, one filled with hope, happiness, and the promise of a bright future. As the Phelps family continues to grow and evolve, they serve as an inspiration, demonstrating the power of love, commitment, and emotional awareness in building a strong, supportive family unit.