Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte share support for one another on Twitter

It’s no secret that Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte are huge rivals. Phelps is coming off the greatest individual Olympic performance in history four years ago but, after finishing off the podium on Saturday, has clearly lost a step. Lochte, meanwhile, is arguably the best swimmer in the world today and is poised for a monster Games in London.

These are two alpha dogs who probably see the other as infringing on his territory. But at the same time they’re countrymen who should have each other’s support. And we saw just that on Twitter after Lochte came away with the gold after their first showdown on Saturday:

Congrats to @ryanlochte … Way to keep that title in the country where it belongs!!

— Michael Phelps (@MichaelPhelps) July 28, 2012

Thanks @MichaelPhelps I couldn’t do it with out you. #USA

— Ryan Lochte (@ryanlochte) July 28, 2012

Now that’s a sign of two guys who are huge rivals but still respect each other. Or, at the very least, two guys who want to ensure morale is positive before they compete together in the 4×100 freestyle relay final Sunday night.

Note: This post also appeared on Yardbarker/Fox Sports’ Medal Detector blog.
Photos: Greg Smith-US PRESSWIRE; Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY Sports