After Russian state TV compared Michael Phelps use of cupping to a banned performance enhancing drug, WGN morning sports anchor Pat Tomasulo came to the Olympic swimmer’s defense, whether he needed it or not.
Circular bruises could be seen on Phelps back and shoulders as he made his successful bid for his 19th gold medal in the 4 X 100 meter freestyle relay. Cupping is an ancient technique alleged to improve circulation and help muscles heal.
“Following the Hollywood trend, the method was adapted by athletes,” said the Russian TV anchor. “According to them, vacuum-based massage improves circulation and overall well being, suggesting that muscle repair happens faster after physical exertion. In other words, the net effect from such practices in many ways, is not unlike those of meldonium.”
“You Putin puppets,” said Tomasulo. “This man is an American hero. You better watch he doesn’t swim the 14,000 miles from Brazil to Russia and deal with you himself.”
Meldonium is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s banned substance list and is available over the counter in Russia.
Russia goes after #MichaelPhelps for #Cupping. @PatTomasulo says ENOUGH. Go after him for THIS, Ruskies #Olympics pic.twitter.com/eSu7nUYVPu
— WGNMorningNews (@WGNMorningNews) August 9, 2016
Here’s the Russian TV report.