Cody Simpson’s Unsuccessful Attempt at Securing Paris Olympics Berth Earns Respect from Swimming Community: “So Goddamn Proud”

“I have always believed in following my dreams, no matter how far-fetched they may seem,” said Cody Simpson, reflecting on his journey from pop stardom back to the swimming pool. He was fame and celebrity’s lovechild and quickly amassed notoriety with his lilting tunes and wide wingspan in the pool. In 2019, while surfing channels to watch ‘The Masked Singer,’ Simpson stumbled upon a broadcast of Caeleb Dressel shattering Michael Phelps‘ world record at the FINA Championships in South Korea. Struck by the realization that Dressel was only a few months older than him, Simpson rekindled his long-held dream of competitive swimming.

Since then, his relentless dedication has led him to become a Commonwealth Games gold medalist. And now, looking to make his mark at the City of Love, he might have fallen short during the qualification process, but his dreams are still sky high and so are the masses who stand by in solidarity with him. Although his Paris 2024 Olympic dreams are on hold, Simpson’s efforts have earned immense respect within the swimming community. His journey might not be complete as this isn’t the end of the road for the Australian phenom. But how did his rather disconcerting fate pan out?

Cody Simpson might have hit a little bit of a snafu

As per the latest reports on swimming.org.au, pop singer turned swimmer Cody Simpson has not been able to make the jump into the elite 2024 Olympics stage. Earlier today he participated in the 100m butterfly final. His last lap was particularly impressive. Simpson ultimately finished fifth with a time of 51.79s. This fell just short of his personal best recorded on Thursday at 51.67s. It was also 0.01s slower than his heats swim. But it was not fast enough to make the cut for the butterfly category. In the event, Matt Temple came first. Simpson had previously tied with him in the 100m freestyle. Temple is also the record holder and scored a time of 51.15s.

Followed closely behind was the formidable Ben Armbruster. Armbruster had previously already qualified for the 50m freestyle event. The other two qualifying men in the 100m butterfly are Shaun Champion with a time of 51.40s and Jesse Coleman with a time of 51.51s. Though Simpson’s chance to score had been enhanced because of Kyle Chalmers’ withdrawal before the trials due to a back injury, it didn’t work out the way Simpson had hoped. In the 100m freestyle event of the Australian Swimming trials, Simpson had tied in the B-final with a time of 48.67s. This was the equivalent of a sixth finish.

However, this came in a little late as having this time in the A-final would have surely secured a spot for Simpson on the plane heading to Paris. He also finished 10th in Thursday’s heat. He hoped selectors would consider him for the 4x100m relay, his strong suit. But unfortunately, it seems Cody Simpson’s might return to music after this fall from grace. But fans chimed in full support for the champion.

Swimming fans around the world celebrate Cody Simpson

The swimming community is rallying their support behind Cody Simpson during this difficult time. One fan expressed their pride in the swimmer’s abilities. They cheered Simpson on for getting so far into the completion. after all, this was the penultimate stage before the Olympics and the journey had been difficult. They wrote, “CodySimpson. I am so goddamn proud of you. You have done so bloody well. Be so proud of what you’ve achieved 💕.”

Another fan expressed how disheartened they were to see Simpson not make it in the final stage. Despite the anticipation and all the good wishes. Saying, “I’m actually so sad that Cody Simpson missed the team you have no idea.” They share in both his triumphs and setbacks, demonstrating a profound connection and unwavering support for his ambitious pursuits.

One fan expressed this widespread sentiment in a heartfelt note, highlighting the courage it took for Cody to make such a significant life change. They wrote their heartfelt note praising the swimmer, “Cody Simpson, who gave up his popular status in music to go back to a childhood dream of swimming was placed 5th tonight in his event. It was a hotly contested race and close. Cody has swum internationally for Australia and won medals. Well done for your achievements in 4 yrs.” This reaction shows fans’ deep respect for Cody’s courage to leave his music career for a long-held dream in swimming.

Another fan also brought to mind just how inspiring it was to watch him turn from a teenage heart throb to a national athlete. He exclaimed, “Cody Simpson’s transition from teen idol to elite swimmer has been so insane to witness in real time.” This reflects pride and inspiration among fans who’ve seen Cody grow and succeed in diverse fields.

The fan emphasized Simpson’s monumental achievements despite the relatively short training time. Where athletes train their whole lives, Simpson has just 4 years to compete against them. They expressed their admiration writing, “Falling just short but what Cody Simpson has managed to achieve in the pool in such a short amount of time is incredible. It’s been amazing to watch the way he’s just gone about his business. Shame to see it coming to an end.” What greener pastures await him come 2028? Will we see the phoenix rise from the ashes yet again?