Phelps keeps low key in U.S. swimming championships

Phelps keeps low key in U.S. swimming championships

WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Beijing Olympics eight-time winner Michael Phelps set a modest goal of making the U.S. world championship team this week.

Fourteen-time Olympic medalist Michael Phelps, of Baltimore, waits on the blocks during a media availability before the start of the ConocoPhillips USA National Swimming Championships in Indianapolis, Monday, July 6, 2009. The meet starts Tuesday.

The U.S. Swimming Championships, selection meet for the World Championships in Rome July 26-Aug 2, will kick off on Tuesday.

In order to book his ticket to Rome and his fifth world championships, Phelps must place among the top two in each event at the Natatorium in Indianapolis.

"It doesn't matter to me if I'm the favorite or I'm not," Phelps told reporters on Monday.

Michael Phelps speaks to the media before the start of the U.S. National Championships and World Swimming Trials in Indianapolis, Indiana July 6, 2009.

"I have to make the team before I decide anything. Bob (coach Bob Bowman) and I just wanted to get here and see where we stand," he said.

Phelps will contest in the 100 and 200 meters freestyle and 100 and 200m butterfly.

Michael Phelps practises in the pool before the start of the U.S. National Championships and World Swimming Trials in Indianapolis, Indiana, July 6, 2009.
(Xinhua)