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Michael Phelps gives IOC faint praise for delaying Tokyo: 'Frustrating it took this long'

The world’s most dominant-ever Olympic athlete is relieved that the Tokyo games have been postponed.

He’s also wondering why the decision didn’t arrive sooner.

Michael Phelps spoke with the Associated Press on Tuesday about the news that this summer’s games have been shelved because of the coronavirus pandemic. The 23-time Olympic gold medalist who’s struggled with anxiety and depression is concerned for the mental health of athletes whose lives have been upended.

‘Frustrating it took this long’

But mostly he’s glad that life-saving measures have been taken.

“Honestly, my first thought was I was relieved,” Phelps told AP.