Chad le Clos is on a mission – to leave the Commonwealth Games with an unprecedented record that cements his place as the greatest ever. The South African swimming legend has had this title hovering over him like a spectre for eight long years, and now he's itching to get rid of it once and for all. With 18 medals already to his name – including seven glittering golds, four silvers, and seven bronzes – le Clos is level with Australian shooter Phil Adams and England's Mick Gault in the all-time list.
Le Clos, a Durban native who made his Games debut as an 18-year-old in Delhi back in 2010, has been chomping at the bit to break this record for years. And now, with the Glasgow Games just around the corner, he's more determined than ever. He'll be competing in the men's 50m and 100m butterfly events – two of his signature disciplines – and is itching to get his name on that top spot.
Despite being an elder statesman in his events, often going head-to-head with opponents a decade younger, le Clos feels he still has plenty to give. And it's not just about personal ambition – he's now swimming for a bigger cause too. His swimming academy in South Africa, which has already grown to 13 clubs and over 3,000 members, is providing him with a renewed sense of purpose.
Le Clos credits a crucial 12-week break from the pool last year, advised by his father, as the catalyst for his current physical and mental state. After hitting rock-bottom following a disappointing performance in the Paris 2024 Olympics heats – where he was subsequently hampered by injuries – le Clos' dad insisted on a complete break from all physical activity. It was a "physical reset" that allowed his body to heal, and it's paid dividends.
Le Clos, who boasts an impressive collection of one Olympic gold, three silvers, and 16 world titles, is confident that his legacy won't be defined solely by his Commonwealth Games record. But securing this title would undoubtedly be a defining moment in his illustrious career – and it's now within reach. With his sights firmly set on the Glasgow Games, le Clos is ready to make history once again.
And what of his plans for the future? Le Clos has already set his sights on competing in a fifth Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028 – indicating that retirement won't be happening anytime soon. It's clear he still has plenty left in the tank, and with this Commonwealth Games record within reach, the world had better get ready for Chad le Clos to make some more waves.