Washington, Feb 3: Swimming legend Mark Spitz has expressed his distress over Michael Phelps' cannabis scandal.

The former Olympian whose gold medal world record was smashed by Phelps said that he feels bad for the 23-year-old star.

"As strictly a fan, I feel badly for Michael and the situation he has put himself in," Usmagazine. com quoted Spitz as saying.

"I think no one would wish this on anyone, especially the person that gave us a summer like no other in 2008.

"I hope this only leads to a better tomorrow for him and his family," he added.

Phelps was snapped using a bong in a November house party in the University of South Carolina.

However, he has released a statement apologizing for his "regrettable" behaviour. (ANI)