- Adam Peaty secured a silver medal for Team GB in the men’s 100m breaststroke final.
- The 29-year-old athlete aims to compete for additional medals later this week.
- However, Peaty has tested positive for COVID, which means he must prioritize his recovery first.
On Monday evening, Adam Peaty shared an emotional Instagram post, a little less than a day following his close loss in the men’s 100m breaststroke final at Paris 2024.
Peaty ended up claiming silver, finishing just 0.02 seconds behind the newly crowned Olympic champion Nicolo Martinenghi.
It was later revealed that Peaty had been feeling unwell prior to the race and has now tested positive for COVID.
This positive COVID test has raised doubts about his potential participation in the remaining events at Paris 2024, although Peaty is committed to recovering in time to join Team GB in the relay events later this week.
Peaty was part of the GB squad that secured gold in the 4x100m mixed medley and a silver in the 4×100 medley during the Tokyo Olympics.
Adam Peaty won a silver medal for Team GB in the men’s 100m breaststroke final on Sunday
Peaty has since tested positive for COVID but he is determined to compete for more medals
Despite being the frontrunner for victory on Sunday, Peaty was eager to celebrate his silver medal instead of lamenting his missed chance for a third consecutive gold.
The 29-year-old, who has openly discussed his struggles with alcohol and depression, started his Instagram post with: ‘A night full of raw emotion and sport in its true essence.’
‘These past 14 months have been incredibly challenging, and I don’t regret a single training session or decision made. I’ve continued to fight and discover new ways to cherish something that has deeply affected me, and attaining an Olympic silver through it all feels like an absolute blessing.’
‘I feel prouder of the man and athlete I’ve become than at any point in my career.’
‘Thank you to my coach of 15 years, @melmarshallmassive, who has been the light in my darkest times and my guide when there seemed to be no path forward; your unwaveringly positive outlook is genuinely inspiring, and I couldn’t imagine a better coach.’
‘We have ventured to places few will ever experience, and those memories will accompany me until my last breath – it has been a true pleasure to share them with you.’
Nicolo Martinenghi (centre) won gold on Sunday after being 0.02 seconds quicker than Peaty
Peaty, 29, was visibly very emotional following Sunday’s final at the Paris La Defense Arena
He also shared his appreciation for his girlfriend Holly Ramsey, the daughter of renowned chef Gordon Ramsey.
‘Thank you to @hollyramsayy, who has been the most amazing partner throughout this journey,’ he expressed.
‘It’s always challenging to cope with the realities of living alongside a professional athlete, given the emotional and physical demands it entails.’
‘You’re my support system, as well as the best guide, constantly helping me to improve. I look forward to the bright future that awaits us.’
‘Congratulations to @nicolomartinenghi for this wonderful moment with your team and loved ones.’
‘I firmly believe in complete transparency in sports, as there are many parts that need to come together for success. According to the British Olympic Association’s press release, I tested positive for COVID this morning after not feeling well yesterday. My immediate focus will be on a quick and full recovery so I can give my all in the team relays later this week.’
‘I’ve received countless messages and will respond to each of you; thank you for your unwavering support throughout this unforgettable experience.’
‘My heart is overflowing.’
Peaty pictured kissing girlfriend Holly Ramsey following Sunday’s 100m breaststroke final
Ramsey (pictured in Rome this year) and Peaty went public with their relationship in July 2023
Peaty wrapped up his heartfelt message by quoting a Bible verse.
The verse stated: ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.’
Ramsey responded to Peaty’s post, writing: ‘I love you, I’m with you all the way now & forever.’
