Australian swimmer Zac Stubblety-Cook has opened up about the impact of his defeat at last year’s world championships and the loss of his world record, revealing that it served as the necessary catalyst to reignite his motivation.
Stubblety-Cook, who claimed Olympic gold in the 200m breaststroke at the Tokyo Games in 2021 and subsequently set a world record in 2022, faced disappointment at the Fukuoka world championships where he surrendered his title and record to Chinese swimmer Qin Haiyang.
Reflecting on his journey, the 25-year-old from Brisbane acknowledged the importance of setbacks in maintaining his competitive edge. I think it’s probably what I needed, if I’m being honest,” Stubblety-Cook shared during the Australian swimming championships on the Gold Coast. “You get to the top and you get a little bit complacent… I think you get comfortable in the routine and a bit numb with racing at a high level.”
However, the setback in Fukuoka has reinvigorated his drive to excel. Stubblety-Cook emphasized his renewed hunger for success, particularly as the Paris Olympics draw nearer. “Paris gets closer and closer every day… I don’t think I’d be in this position if I didn’t love a challenge,” he stated.
Australian swimming legend Giaan Rooney echoed Stubblety-Cook’s sentiments, describing the defeat as a positive turning point. “He really didn’t like being beaten last year, and I like that… It relit the fire in the belly,” Rooney remarked. She noted that Stubblety-Cook’s determination to reclaim his standing as a dominant force in the sport has been evident in his training regimen and attitude towards competition.
Stubblety-Cook’s resolve to bounce back has been further fueled by his preparations for the Paris Games, including a rigorous training camp in Flagstaff, Arizona. He is set to compete in multiple events at the national championships and is expected to feature prominently at the upcoming Olympics.
Looking ahead, Stubblety-Cook is driven not only by the desire for redemption but also by the aspiration to solidify his legacy as a consistent and formidable athlete. “I want to prove I can be an incredibly consistent athlete that can find the right gear when needed,” he affirmed.
As he gears up for the challenges ahead, Stubblety-Cook remains focused on his ultimate goal of defending his Olympic gold medal while continuing to push the boundaries of his own potential.