BEIJING, Aug 10: Michael Phelps had his right hand on his heart, an Olympic gold medal around his neck and was listening to the closing notes of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ when the music went dead Sunday.

Phelps broke into a wide grin and the surprised crowd, at first unsure what to do, then began clapping. When the music didn't resume, Phelps, team-mate Ryan Lochte, the bronze medallist, and silver medallist Laszlo Cseh of Hungary gathered on the top spot of the medals podium for photographers.

The glitch came with about 20 seconds go in the anthem and the crescendo approaching.

US President George W. Bush was at the Water Cube at the time, joined by wife Laura, daughter Barbara and his father, former President George H.W. Bush.

After the session ended and the stands cleared, officials played the anthem again over the loudspeakers, knowing they will likely need to use it numerous times during a nine-day meet that features Phelps and the powerful US swimming team.

It went all the way through without a hitch.—AP