Within the Australian swim team, they call him “the Professor”. In part, it is because Cameron McEvoy graduated with a science degree, majoring in physics and mathematics. It’s also because, in contrast to some team-mates, he is more than happy to hold court with journalists and give lectures. “I can stand here for a very long time,” he laughed on Friday night. And finally, because McEvoy has used data and sports science to quietly revolutionise the one-lap “splash and dash” 50m metre freestyle.
On the third-last day of swimming action at the Paris Olympics, McEvoy’s doctorate was awarded. At his fourth Games, after more than 12 years of heartbreak, the 30-year-old walked to the starting blocks for his only event this week. Sub-22 seconds to make or break an Olympic campaign. McEvoy walked to the blocks, slammed his hands down and soaked in the atmosphere. An entire career to be defined by the moments that followed.
