Tom Daley. Photo: Adidas
Olympic gold medalist Tom Daley, in an interview this month with Attitude magazine, provided a raw and reflective look at his life post-competition, delving into how he manages his mental health, the pressures of body image, and the profound shift in attitudes toward LGBTQ+ athletes since he came out.
Daley explained that his now-famous hobby, knitting, has served as a crucial tool for mental well-being and grounding, especially after a high-pressure, decades-long career.
-
Therapeutic Escape: He described knitting as a “therapeutic thing”that allows him to step away from the intensity of the spotlight and the rigorous demands of professional athletics.
-
A New Identity: Knitting allows him to tap into a creative identity beyond his role as an athlete, helping him transition into post-retirement life and focus on something that brings him joy and calm.
The Olympic champion spoke openly about his personal battles, motivated by a desire to help others and challenge rigid masculine norms, particularly in the sports world.
-
Challenging Toxic Masculinity: Daley shared his experience with bulimia and ongoing body dysmorphia, which began after he was told he was overweight by a coach as a teenager. He highlighted how difficult it was to seek help, as he felt an internalized belief that “Guys didn’t have eating disorders.”
-
Pressure in the Gay Community: He also noted that unrealistic body expectations are a “big thing in the gay world,”and he aims to start wider conversations that dismantle these harmful ideals, encouraging men to air their concerns without shame.
-
The Power of Truth:Daley felt compelled to speak publicly about this because, despite his fit physique, he still struggles. He recognized that sharing his truth could help younger generations struggling alone.
Reflecting on his decision to come out via a YouTube video at age 19, Daley observed the significant progress made within the sporting world over the last decade.
-
Increased Visibility: He noted a positive change, with more athletes now feeling comfortable being their authentic selves and coming out earlier in their careers.
-
Visibility as Advocacy: While acknowledging that some still feel pressure to become political activists immediately, Daley maintains that their visibility alone is powerful. His own journey, which began with a wish to simply live his truth, later grew into impactful advocacy work, such as campaigning for LGBTQ+ rights across the Commonwealth.
Daley concluded by reinforcing that while he still holds great pride in his sporting achievements, his focus has shifted to family, mental well-being, and using his platform to promote acceptance.
