Not everyone has the honor of being Michael Phelps’ rival. Only the top swimmers of the world can come under the swimming GOAT’s radar. South African swimming sensation Chad Le Clos had risen in the swimming world’s estimation with his intense rivalry with the Baltimore Bullet. Le Clos continued to dominate the sport even after Phelps retired and added World Championship medals and Olympic medals to his collection. 

But since the 2020 Tokyo Games, he has been on a downward spiral with mental health issues plaguing the formidable hero. Looking to reestablish his supremacy he entered the Swimming World Cup 2023. But in a cruel twist of fate, his contention ended in disappointment. 

Chad Le Clos’ upsetting loss at the Swimming World Cup 2023

Chad Le Clos had emerged as the absolute star of the butterfly race category by defeating Michael Phelps at the 2021 London Olympics. 11 years later after that iconic moment the Olympic champion looked battle worn but determination shone from his eyes as he stood at the dive zone. He was competing in heat 4 for the 100-meter butterfly against seven other swimmers. The official YouTube video from the event titled, “Morning Heats Berlin | Day 1 | World Aquatics Swimming World Cup 2023” showed the 31-year-old breakout star racing down his rivals at lane 5.

It was his signature event and many believed he would trounce all in the finals. But as luck would have it, Chad Le Clos did not move beyond the heat stage. In fact, he was the last swimmer to finish the race showcasing a harrowing reversal of fortune and might. Seeing his current trajectory one cannot help but speculate the reason for this dramatic decline. 

Chad Le Clos’ recent horrors

Chad Le Clos recently updated his fans on social media about his health troubles. He wrote, “It’s been a difficult time. We’ve had a bit of sickness this year, unfortunately, so this World Cup will be more of a stepping stone toward the Olympics next year”. However, fate dealt him a cruel blow and ended his contention in the heats. 

Read More: 11 Years After Destroying Michael Phelps at Olympics, Arch Rival Drops Shocking Revelation to Swimming World

He is South Africa’s most decorated swimmer with 151 gold medals won during an illustrious career. His mental and physical health issues have prevented him from reaching his peak form. The Swimming World Cup 2023 was supposed to be his comeback event but he failed to deliver on his goals. For a long time now, he has been hyping his upcoming entry at the 2024 Paris Olympics saying, “I’m confident I can win”. Now it remains to be seen what lies ahead for this great swimming legend in the upcoming season.

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