Team GB swimmers on the value good conversations (and golf)

But the men – part of a team including Duncan Scott and Matt Richards that won gold in the men’s 4x200m freestyle at Tokyo 2020 – also believe a willingness to open up about their mental health is crucial to coping with the stress of elite competition.

Tom and James, who spent years training together in Bath, said regular mental health check-ins have become part of their routine.

Tom said, “One of the things that I’ve found really helpful is that when Jimmy and I have both gone through times – especially when it comes to life outside the pool, relationships, whatever – we’ve been able to check in on each other.

“He’d check in on me and I’d say, ‘I’m alright’ and he’d ask how I was actually doing. Swimming can be pretty tough. It can be quite an isolating sport and what we do isn’t exactly normal. Having supportive people around you is really important.”

James, who was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 24, agrees openness is an essential part of success in the pool.

He said, “Having someone who cares enough to check in with you is something you can’t really buy. Our training is mentally draining, and I need things that give me that mental switch-off.

“A lot of people suffer from anxiety, myself included, so being able to chat about it is really important. Years ago, when I first joined the team, no-one was like that. It has changed and it’s nice to be where we are.”

Tom and James are heading to Paris 2024 as part of the same line-up that won gold in Tokyo. They’re hoping to become one of the very few relay squads to successfully defend their Olympic title without introducing new members.

The swimmers are among the 1,000 elite athletes on UK Sport’s National Lottery-funded World Class Programme. It allows them to train full-time, have access to the world’s best coaches and benefit from pioneering medical support. This support is vital if they’re to reclaim their place on the podium in Paris.

James said, “The National Lottery has helped me massively in my career. I remember getting funding for the first time – I felt like a millionaire! It means the world to have their backing.”

Tom added, “Even before I got to the National Centre, as a young athlete, the support The National Lottery gives you just helps you so much.”

Watch Tom and James talk golf and gold medals below:

23rd July 2024