FORMER OLYMPIC CHAMPION Ian Thorpe believes Michael Phelps will have a successful Games, despite facing strong competition.

After retiring in 2006, five-time Olympic gold medallist Thorpe attempted a comeback to the sport this year, but failed to qualify for London.

The 29-year-old, who defeated Phelps in the 200m freestyle in Athens in 2004, believes the American, along with Ryan Lochte, will be the standout.

“I think Michael will swim incredibly well,” Thorpe said. ”He’s picked a programme where he’s up against other great swimmers as well and it’s going to be a successful Games for Michael.

“It will be a successful Games as well for Ryan Lochte – I think he’ll swim very well also.”

But the event Thorpe is most looking forward to is the 100m freestyle, for which Australian James Magnussen is the favourite.

“James Magnussen who will absolutely light up the pool in the 100m freestyle,” Thorpe said.

“That for me will be one of the races that will be a highlight.”

With emotions running high Thorpe lent some advice to athletes before competing at the Games.

“I’m glad that I can relax before the Games because it’s a pretty stressful time for athletes and I know what they are going through right now,” he said.

“With days to go (my advice is) – enjoy that you are the Olympic Games – that’s the first thing.

“The second is to make sure that you’re not enjoying it too much – it’s to make sure you bring down a lot of that exciting buzz that you feel around the Olympic village and the venues.”

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