Triple Olympic champion swimmer Anthony Ervin says ‘Winning can be terrible’

Swimmer Anthony Ervin won Olympic gold aged 19. His life then fell apart. He was homeless for a time, attempted suicide, and drank heavily. By 2016, he had completely turned his life around and won the 50m freestyle at the Olympics.

Aged 35, he was the oldest individual Olympic gold medal winner in swimming.

This time though - he was ready.

“Winning can be a terrible thing that happens to you. It can completely intoxicate you… Winning is a test.”

We spoke about Ryan Lochte, growing up with Tourette’s, and how he wants to compete at Tokyo 2020.

LINKS:

Anthony winning gold in Rio

Anthony's book

The other book he recommended

Andre Agassi's book

The myth of Icarus

If any of the topics in this episode distressed you, please talk to some one! Or let us know... In the UK, the charity Samaritans are very helpful.