On teamwork:
?Everyone has their own role and plays their part. As a swimmer, I stand on the block on my own. But I have to have the right team behind me to perform at my best: my coach; team manager; physio; training partners; family. Teams only work when they pull together.
On self-discipline:
“Talent alone is not enough. You need discipline. It’s no coincidence that the people who work harder achieve more! I raced and trained with many people over the years who were more talented than me but I trained harder and wanted it more. Have realistic short-term and long-term goals and stay focused on them.
On motivation:
“There are elements of everyone’s job that they don’t like. For me, it was the 5am starts! Diving into freezing cold water and swimming 10km isn’t fun, but I knew I had to do it to get results. The thing I love, the thing that motivates me, is representing my country and standing on top of the podium.
On losing:
No-one wins all the time. And that includes Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps! If you don’t have a go, you?ll never know what you’re capable of. Don?t be one of those people who says: “I didn?t try because I?m scared of failing?. Do your best and give it 100 per cent.
On money:
“Money changes everyone. Sport used to be my hobby. But when it’s your career, you need to earn a living. I didn?t retire until I was 38. That’s late in the world of swimming. I agree with performance pay. The better you perform, the more you should make. We all need incentives.
