Joseph Schooling Officially Retires From Competitive Swimming
He made the announcement today, 2 April.
Singaporean swimmer and Olympic gold medallist Joseph Schooling is officially retiring from competitive swimming
Schooling, who made history by winning Singapore's first-ever Olympic gold medal in 2016, announced that he will be "beginning a new chapter" of his life.
"I am filled with gratitude for every experience that swimming has brought into my life. The victories were exhilarating, the defeats humbling, and together, they have forged a resilience in me that I will carry forward into my next chapter," the 28-year-old wrote in the caption of his Instagram post today, 2 April.
Image via @josephschooling (Instagram)
In the post, he continues by thanking his family, coaches, teammates, and supporters, adding that despite stepping away from competing, swimming will forever be a part of who he is.
"It has given me a platform to inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter the odds. I am eager to explore new passions, face different challenges, and see where this next phase of life takes me. Thank you to my supporters for standing by me every step of the way. I hope you will join me as I embark on this new adventure," he penned.
The announcement featured a collection of photos showcasing Schooling's journey from his childhood swimming endeavours all the way to his triumphant gold medal victory.
Image via @josephschooling (Instagram)
Schooling won the gold medal in the 100m butterfly at the 2016 Rio Olympics, beating legendary swimmer Michael Phelps and setting a new Olympic record
It was the first time that Phelps, who won the 100m butterfly at the past three Olympics, was beaten.
Schooling has also won various other medals at the Southeast Asian Games and Asian Games.
Image via Dominic Ebenbichler/Reuters/CNA
In just eight years, Schooling went from meeting his idol to beating him:
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