Elijah Winnington, the Australian swimmer, secured a silver medal in the 400 metres freestyle at the Paris Games, marking a triumphant return after his disappointing performance in Tokyo.
The former world champion had arrived in Tokyo as the top seed and favourite, but a shock seventh-place finish in the final, behind Tunisia's Ahmed Hafnaoui, left him deeply disheartened. Despite winning bronze in the 4x200 metres relay as a heat swimmer, the experience left him in what he described as a "semi-state of depression".
Winnington's journey back to form began in Doha at the world championships in February, where he finished second to South Korea's Kim Woo-min. His hard work and determination paid off in Paris, with the Australian swimmer securing his first individual Olympic medal.
"It's unbelievable," Winnington shared with reporters. "Three years ago, I was in the exact same lane, lane six, and I bombed out and came seventh. I was fortunate enough to win a medal in the 4x200m heat in Tokyo, but I haven't ever told anyone this, but I've never actually looked at that medal because I didn't think I'd earned it. So, having a medal around my neck tonight on the dais is going to be really, really special for me."
Winnington's silver medal was hard-earned. He had to fight back from a challenging position, overtaking Kim, who had held onto second place for much of the race, behind the German winner, Lukas Maertens.
This hard-fought victory in Paris represents a significant comeback for Winnington, who has overcome significant adversity since his Tokyo disappointment. The silver medal stands as a testament to his resilience and dedication, and a moment that will surely stay with him, draped around his neck, as he moves forward with his swimming career.
