Adam Peaty, Britain’s greatest swimmer, has stepped away from competing over concerns for his mental health.
In a dramatic announcement through his social media channel the three-time Olympic champion cited burnout for his decision. He confirmed he was withdrawing from next month’s British Championships and that he was taking the step to give himself the best chance of success at next summer’s Paris Olympics.
Peaty, who will continue to train, wrote: “Everyone wants to sit in your seat until they have to sit in your seat. Very few people understand what winning and success does to an individual’s mental health.