Many Olympians often reflect on their journey through hardship, unwavering focus, and the pursuit of a demanding goal during their moments of achievement. However, as Tom Daley and Noah Williams celebrated their silver medal for Team GB in the 10m synchronized platform dive at Paris 2024, the conversation shifted to themes of family, support systems, life balance, and even juice cups.
Daley and Williams delivered a consistently impressive performance at the Aquatic Centre, finishing second to the outstanding Chinese duo, Yang Hao and Lian Junjie. For Daley, this silver medal rounds out his Olympic collection, which includes three bronzes and a gold. Yet, even in this moment of victory, he was reminded of his roles as a father to Robbie, aged five, and Phoenix, aged one.
“Even before the competition started, it felt like we had already won. Just being present with my family and kids is incredibly special,” Daley shared.
“They were right above the mixed zone during our interviews, and Phoenix even threw his juice cup at me. I guess I’ll need to return it to him at some point. It nearly hit one of the BBC reporters! It was truly wonderful to have him there and share this moment.”
The post-competition ceremonies also provided a chance for Daley to express gratitude for the support from his husband, screenwriter Dustin Lance Black, who was visibly emotional in the stands following the final dives.
“The close ones to Olympic athletes often don’t receive enough recognition for their sacrifices and support. My husband has been by my side all year, managing the kids while I’ve been away for training camps and competitions.
“He has his own career but has been willing to put that aside at times so I could pursue my goals. This year has been particularly challenging since we moved to LA and Lance has been returning to his work, yet he has been incredibly supportive in allowing me to have another shot at the Olympics. It’s truly special to have someone who supports you unconditionally.”
Williams also shed tears, honoring his late coach, Dave Jenkins, who passed away in 2021 but was instrumental in his journey to this, his first Olympic medal. “Dave was probably the nicest person I’ve ever met. He introduced me to international competition and my first Olympics. I genuinely wouldn’t be here without him. He taught me, as Tom has said, that diving isn’t everything in life.”
Daley, whose father passed away in 2011, was visibly touched by Williams’s heartfelt tribute. “I’ve never seen Noah cry before, and I can see how much this means to him. Dave was such an important figure in Noah’s success and career; it’s heartbreaking that he isn’t here to witness this. Yet, I believe both Dave and my dad would be incredibly proud.”
The British duo only began training together in November, managing to carve out time amidst competitions and a week at Daley’s house while Williams was recovering from an injury.
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“I live in LA, and he lives in London,” Daley explained. “We showed up, figured it out together, and competed. It’s unusual, but I was in LA due to my husband’s work. It was refreshing to train away from the national program’s pressure and focus on the final details together.”
When asked about the possibility of competing in a sixth Olympics in Los Angeles at age 34, Daley’s answer was thought-provoking. “I’m not sure yet. It’s been quite a journey going from the youngest on the team in 2008 to now being the oldest diver. I want to savor this moment and later reflect on my future in diving. Since I’m based in LA now, it might be an opportunity for a second home Games.”
For the moment, however, it’s all about the here and now. “Just fifteen months ago, I was sitting on the sofa, doing nothing, and today, I’m proud to be back in a competitive shape.”
