Michael Phelps: Expectations of Superstar Olympian Are Unfair

After only one failed effort in the pool, spectators of the 2012 Summer Olympics are already doubting Michael Phelps, proving that the expectations of the 27-year-old are unfair and outrageous at best.

We all know his stunning resume: 14 gold medals won over his past two Olympic performances, good for the most all time. He is easily one of the greatest, if not the greatest, Olympians the world has ever seen.

So it came as a surprise to most viewers that Phelps fell far short of expectations when he placed fourth in the 400-meter individual medley while his teammate, Ryan Lochte, finished with a gold medal around his neck.

To add to the widespread panic caused by Phelps' finish, this event was once his signature.

All of his career success have created a godlike aura around Phelps that he will never be able to shake. In turn, people have forgotten that the swimmer is like the rest of us.

Human.

Not only does the average fan expect Phelps to walk out of each race with a medal, they unrealistically expect him to win every race he's in.

People have forgotten that athletes have both good and bad days, and while Phelps hasn't had many bad, he was certainly due for one.

Is that so unacceptable?

Phelps can't, and won't, win every race he takes part in. There will be races that he doesn't perform well in. Just because he's been immune to such a result in the past doesn't mean it can't happen now and in the future.

Phelps has proven enough to fans of the Games around the globe. He's accomplished just about everything an Olympian can hope to accomplish and has represented his country like no other American Olympian ever has.

I think Phelps deserves the benefit of the doubt in this case. It's ludicrous to expect him to be perfect because, quite honestly, nobody is.