Tom Daley, Britain's most decorated diver, has spoken candidly about the pressure to lose weight during his career, revealing that it was 'hammered into' him that he needed to be lighter. In a new autobiography and a Q&A session with readers, the 27-year-old Olympic gold medallist discussed body image issues, grief, and his passion for knitting.
Daley, who came out as gay in 2013 and is now married to screenwriter Dustin Lance Black, said that despite being an elite athlete, he struggled with body image. 'You have these body issues as an athlete. Lots of people would look at athletes and be like: “What are you talking about? You’re an athlete, you’re in shape, you have nothing to worry about.” But especially as a diver, you’re up on the diving board and you’re so naked, so visible,' he said.
The diver also reflected on the death of his father, Robert, who died from a brain tumour in 2011. Daley described his father as his 'biggest champion' and said he still carries his words with him: 'If you go into a competition with 18 people in it and you come last, as long as you do your best, you’re 18th-best in the whole country. How cool is that?'
Daley, who won gold in Tokyo with synchronised partner Matty Lee, said his mindset had shifted over his four Olympics. In 2016, he put 'unbearable pressure' on himself, but by 2020, his family became the priority. He now meditates daily and uses knitting to stay calm, and aims to set a good example for his three-year-old son, Robbie.
