Olympic diver Noah Williams consider a break for mental health
Williams ponders break after winning silver and bronze in Paris
Olympic diver Noah Williams has expressed uncertainty about returning to diving, candidly discussing the impact of intensive training on his mental health. At 24, the Team GB athlete secured a bronze in the individual platform and a silver in synchronised diving with Tom Daley at the Paris Games. These achievements came three years after the unexpected death of his coach and mentor, David Jenkins.
Williams, now a two-time Olympic medallist, shared with a news agency that he has surpassed his own expectations and is considering a “long break” from the sport. He mentioned that his return for the Los Angeles Games is uncertain, stating, “If I’m completely honest, I probably will carry on, but the truth is I don’t know. I want to take maybe even up to a year out and see. If after a year I don’t miss diving and my mental health’s better, I might just leave it there.”
Previously, Williams has been open about his mental health struggles, admitting that the rigorous training regime has taken a toll on him. “I hate training – it’s so mentally taxing,” he said, though he enjoys competing, which he described as the reason he dives.
💬🇬🇧Noah Williams,🥉10m Platform Bronze Medalist:
"For them to finally get the clean sweep & win 8 golds🥇is, in my eyes, what they deserve, every #Olympics almost."
"I think they train harder & better than anyone else. The facilities they have are amazing."#Paris2024 #Diving pic.twitter.com/OUPwT5gNXG
— CGTN Sports Scene (@CGTNSportsScene) August 11, 2024
A growing number of athletes have started to prioritise their mental health amidst the pressures of elite sports. Simone Biles, considered one of the greatest gymnasts, took a break in 2021 for her mental wellness. British swimmer Adam Peaty has also discussed his battles with depression and alcoholism, and tennis star Naomi Osaka withdrew from the 2021 French Open due to mental health concerns.
The demands of high-level competition often prevent athletes from enjoying ordinary activities. Williams plans to use his break to “go on a little holiday” and engage in other sports he likes. He has admitted to suffering from depression and, despite not initially wanting to discuss it publicly, has aimed to be honest about his experiences. Negative comments have affected him deeply, with even one unkind remark potentially ruining his week. However, he also receives supportive messages from fans, which he values greatly.
Williams reflected on the loss of his coach Jenkins in 2021, describing it as having a “massive impact” on his life. Jenkins, who was just 31, was found unconscious in a swimming pool in Antalya, Turkey. He was the development lead coach for Dive London and had been training the Team GB squad the day before his death.
The diver explained that losing Jenkins “flipped my life upside down,” causing him to contemplate quitting diving. Jenkins had been a significant figure in his life, spending extensive time together during training. The aftermath of Jenkins’s death marked a low point for Williams, but he hopes his coach would be proud of his recent successes in Paris.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why might Noah Williams quit diving?
Williams might quit due to mental health struggles and the toll of intensive training.
What medals did Noah Williams win in Paris?
Williams won a bronze in the individual platform and a silver in the synchronised platform.
How did the death of Williams’ coach affect him?
The death of his coach was a massive shock and flipped his life upside down.
Why do elite athletes take breaks from competing?
Elite athletes take breaks to focus on their mental health and manage intense pressures.
What will Noah Williams do during his break from diving?
Williams plans to go on a holiday and engage in other sports he enjoys.
