Michael Phelps, the most successful Olympian of all time, told Rio de Janeiro’s youngsters to chase their dreams during a visit to the 2016 Olympic Games host city.

The American swimmer, who won 22 Olympic medals (18 gold) during his career, gave a swimming class at Rocinha Sports Centre in Rio’s biggest favela on Monday. He visited the community ahead of the Laureus World Sport Awards in the city that night, when he won a special new award.

Phelps said: “Having a dream, and being able to reach for it, is something that everybody needs. These kids have the opportunity to come to these centres, interact with other children and have smiles on their faces. That’s very important. Everybody has a goal that they want to accomplish, and they should go for it.”

The Rocinha Sports Centre is used by 4,500 people, offering 17 different sports, plus social and health services. It was opened in 2010 by former Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, along with Rio 2016 President Arthur Nuzman, Rio State Governor Sérgio Cabral and Rio City Mayor Eduardo Paes.

Although Phelps spoke about his love of Rio de Janeiro, he gave no hint that he would return to the pool for the 2016 Games, as he stressed how much he is enjoying retirement – especially playing golf.