Shaquille O’Neal once faced off against Michael Phelps in a swimming competition for his reality TV show, “Shaq Vs.” The series, which aired between 2009 and 2010, featured Shaq challenging various sports stars at their own games. In the show’s finale, he competed against Phelps at Loyola University Maryland’s Mangione Aquatic Center.
Despite Phelps being the most decorated Olympian with 23 gold medals, Shaq surprisingly won the first race. They swam a freestyle event where Shaq covered 25 yards and Phelps had to swim 50 yards with a five-second head start. Shaq finished in 23.14 seconds, narrowly beating Phelps’ 24.03 seconds. However, Shaq lost the subsequent two races.
This memorable moment has resurfaced on social media, with many expressing amazement at Shaq’s unexpected victory. Although Shaq ultimately lost the overall competition, his victory in the initial race remains a notable achievement. The episode garnered significant viewership, leading to the show’s renewal for a second season, where Shaq continued to take on other challenges.
