Adam Peaty, the British swimmer known for winning two Olympic gold medals, admits that he had contemplated quitting the sport after suffering a major burnout, and experiencing depression and alcohol issues in the wake of the Olympics in 2021. Peaty also had a falling-out with the mother of his son and missed the 2022 World Championships due to a broken foot. His performance at the Commonwealth Games was lacklustre as he only finished fourth, putting an end to his eight yearlong unbeaten run in the 100m breaststroke. Peaty later broke down emotionally in Melbourne, where he went several months later for the short-course World Championships. Eventually, he took a break from the sport entirely, in 2023 citing mental health reasons.
Despite his struggles, Peaty has now made a comeback and returned to the sport, aiming to secure his third Olympic gold in a row at the Paris games. Reflecting on his dark days, Peaty acknowledges the sacrifices he had to make to win the coveted Olympic accolade and admits that raising his son in this context has not been easy. However, he is grateful for the support of his Christian faith, gardening and journaling, which have helped him find a better space mentally.
At the British trials in April, Peaty won the title with a timing of 57.94 seconds, just over a second off his own world record from 2019. Peaty acknowledges that his absence from the World Championships has showcased the rise of China’s Qin Haiyang, who won three events at the 2023 World Championships. However, Peaty remains confident that his third coming would be his best yet, calling himself Adam Peaty 3.0. He is set to compete for gold at the Paris Olympics.
Peaty is grateful for the opportunity to do what he loves and recognizes the importance of mental wellbeing in sports. Despite the personal challenges he has faced, he has refused to let his struggles define him, and instead, has become an inspiring role model
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