Melbourne, Aug 22 : Michael Phelps was first linked to US swimmer Amanda Beard and English model Lily Donaldson and now a new name is making waves in the media for getting cozy with the iconic Olympian -Stephanie Rice.

Rumours are abuzz that the Phelps has been partying with Rice since his record-breaking gold medal feats, reports the Daily Telegraph.

When a shirtless Phelps got friendly with Rice at a promotion, it set tongues wagging.

Aussie swimming insiders said that the pair was very close at a party organised by Ian Thorpe.

And blogging sites are carrying pictures of Phelps cosying up to a dark-haired woman with comments hinting it is Rice.

Meanwhile, Beard has denied that she is dating Phelps saying, "Eww, that's nasty. I have never, ever hooked up with Michael Phelps," Beard told a radio station in Phoenix yesterday.

"Come on, I have really good taste. He's really not my type. We don't even talk to each other," she said.

Phelps was equally emphatic in his denial. "I'm not dating Amanda Beard. I think she has a boyfriend."

Asked if he's dating anyone, Phelps said, "Part of my life is kept to myself. I'm able to relax and be with my friends. Those pretty much are the only people who really know the answer to that."

ANI