Australian swimmer Kaylee McKeown, who has won five Olympic gold medals, has decided to withdraw from the World Cup swimming series in China in order to prioritize her mental health. This decision comes after she participated in the first day of the competition in Shanghai.
In a statement on Instagram, McKeown expressed her gratitude to World Aquatics for the opportunity to compete in the World Cup series, but emphasized the importance of listening to her heart and recognizing when it’s time to take a break. She acknowledged the fun she had in Shanghai but stated that she needs to focus on her mental well-being.
Known for her outstanding performance in last year’s World Cup series where she won the overall women’s title and broke multiple world records, McKeown’s decision to step back from the current competition highlights the significance of mental health awareness in sports. Despite her recent success at the Olympics in Paris, she understands the importance of self-care and rest.
Following her record-breaking achievements at the Australian short-course championships last month, McKeown has been actively involved in swimming events. However, her recent decision to prioritize her mental health serves as a reminder that athletes, no matter how accomplished, need to take care of their well-being.
The World Cup series will continue in South Korea and Singapore in the upcoming weeks, but McKeown’s absence from the competition underscores the necessity of mental health support in the world of sports. By openly addressing her own needs and making the decision to focus on her well-being, McKeown sets an example for other athletes to prioritize self-care and listen to their bodies and minds.