Michael Phelps made a winning return to competitive racing as the 18-time Olympic gold-medallist claimed 100 metres butterfly victory at the Arena Pro Swim Series in Arizona . Phelps , back in action after a six-month suspension imposed by USA Swimming following his drink driving conviction last September , won the race in Mesa with a time of 52.38 seconds , edging out Ryan Lochte . 'It 's my first time to race since Pan Pacs ( the 2014 Pan Pacific Championships ) , and being back in the water racing is something that I love , ' said Phelps , quoted on usaswimming.org . Michael Phelps claimed 100 metres butterfly victory at the Arena Pro Swim Series following six-month ban . The 18-time Olympic gold-medallist was suspended by USA Swimming for failing a drink-driving test . ' I really enjoy it , and it feels good to be back . ' Phelps , the most decorated Olympian in history , will miss this summer 's World Championships in Kazan , Russia , following discussions with USA Swimming . However , the 29-year-old Maryland native revealed earlier this week that he intends to compete at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro . Phelps made a splash again as he returned to the swimming pool to claim a win in Arizona . 29-year-old Phelps is aiming to compete in a fifth Olympics next year in Rio de Janeiro .
Michael USA Swimming won his first race back following six-month suspension . USA Swimming was suspended by Phelps for failing a drink-driving test . Olympic champion won 100m butterfly at the Arena Pro Swim Series .