IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

What's with Phelps' beard?

There have been questions surrounding Michael Phelps since he arrived here in Beijing on Tuesday evening: Will he win eight golds? Will he establish his place in history as the most dominant swimmer of all time? And, perhaps more importantly ... what is with that facial hair?Matt Lauer put that question to Phelps this week while interviewing him for a segment that aired today. Contrary to popula

There have been questions surrounding Michael Phelps since he arrived here in Beijing on Tuesday evening: Will he win eight golds? Will he establish his place in history as the most dominant swimmer of all time? And, perhaps more importantly ... what is with that facial hair?

Matt Lauer put that question to Phelps this week while interviewing him for a segment that aired today. Contrary to popular belief, Phelps is not channeling Mark Spitz circa 1972 in order to break his record of the most gold medals won at a single Olympic Games. In fact, the answer is not that exciting at all:

"Just messing around a little bit," he said.  "Just having a little fun, is all."

Phelps said the 'stache is going to go tonight or tomorrow, well before his first preliminary heat on Saturday morning.

So...enjoy it while you can?

WATCH VIDEO