Adam PEATY

At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, he made history as the first British swimmer to successfully defend an Olympic title, securing gold in the 100m breaststroke and contributing to Team GB's victory in the 4x100m mixed medley.

Despite suffering from a foot injury that kept him out of the 2022 World Championships, Peaty highlighted his dominance, winning gold in the 50m and 100m breaststroke events at the British Swimming Championships. He added to his impressive collection of medals by winning another gold in the 50m breaststroke at the Commonwealth Games.

Adam Peaty: The road to Paris 2024

Peaty opted to step away from the sport in March 2023 to prioritise his mental well-being. In a candid disclosure, he openly shared his challenges, citing a battle with depression and alcohol-related issues.

His break for mental health recovery has fueled a renewed sense of determination, bolstered by the support of his team, family, and friends.

“I pretty much hated it. But now I’m enjoying it so much again,” he told The Independent in October 2023, reflecting on his hiatus. “I’m the happiest I’ve ever been and the most calculated and balanced too."

At Paris 2024, Peaty was seeking to become the first man since Michael Phelps to win gold in the same event at three consecutive Games. However, in a 100m breaststroke final won by Italy’s Nicolo Martinenghi, the Brit touched the wall in second place just 0.02 seconds behind the victor.

While Peaty’s silver in Paris represented his sixth Olympic medal, the podium finish did not come without its challenges. A statement from Team GB revealed that the athlete had tested positive for COVID the morning after the race having begun feeling unwell just hours before the final.