Adam Peaty Tests Positive for Covid After Securing Silver Medal

Adam Peaty, the renowned British swimmer, has tested positive for Covid-19 just one day after clinching a silver medal in the 100m breaststroke at the Paris Olympics. Peaty, who narrowly missed out on a third consecutive gold by just 0.02 seconds, mentioned feeling slightly unwell after the race with “a little bit on my throat.”

According to a statement from Team GB, Peaty’s condition worsened overnight, leading to a positive Covid-19 test. Unlike the previous Tokyo Games, the Paris Olympics do not have strict Covid-19 protocols that would prevent him from competing. The illness is treated as a general health issue by organizers, but Team GB has implemented straightforward measures, including hand hygiene and maintaining distance from other competitors.

Peaty was expected to participate in British relay teams later in the Olympics, with the possibility of returning to action as soon as Friday. Team GB expressed optimism about his recovery, stating he is “hopeful to be back in competition.” The statement added that Peaty’s situation is being managed with all necessary precautions to keep the wider delegation healthy.

Peaty could compete in either the men’s or mixed 4x100m medley relay events in Paris. He was part of the squad that won gold in the mixed event in Tokyo. The title defense begins on Friday morning with heats and a potential final on Saturday evening, should Britain qualify. The men’s medley relay heats start on Saturday morning, with the final on Sunday night.

Team GB coaches will select Peaty for the event they believe offers the best chance of a medal, possibly both if he is fit enough, as his participation is crucial to their hopes. After the race, Peaty gave emotional interviews, discussing the challenges he faced since his last gold in Tokyo, including struggles with alcohol and mental health. He almost left the sport before making a comeback last year.

Peaty is not the first aquatics athlete at the Games to test positive for Covid-19. Five members of Australia’s water polo squad, who compete at a different venue, contracted the virus days before the Games.