Iconic Australian swimmer Ian Thorpe looked in incredible shape as he attended a Brisbane 2032 event last week.
The five-time Olympic gold medallist, 43, appeared remarkably trim as he took part in a panel discussing the Games that will take place in Australia six years from now.
Thorpe joined fellow Olympians and Paralympians Nina Kennedy, Jess Fox, Calab Law, Rae Anderson for the occasion — and gave an insight as to what it takes to host an Olympics.
The legend, who won three golds the last time a Games was in Australia for Sydney 2000, said: “The pool’s basically been filled in, so you can’t use it at an appropriate height that wouldn’t be dangerous for young people warming up at a competition.
“The conditions now you need [to host elite competition are] two 50-metre pools in the same venue – that’s what the governing body says.”
Thorpe does not have the power to make decisions regarding the hosting of the Games, but is involved to give advice and guidance.
“I don’t get to say what Brisbane does or doesn’t do, I can only advise on what’s best for the athletes and to try and provide the appropriate facilities that athletes will require – that the governing bodies require – during an Olympic Games,” he said.
“But also have the capacity to be able to move in size, what it looks like during and post-Olympic Games as well, so that it’s the right fit for Brisbane.”
Thorpe left Aussie fans concerned back in 2024 when he attended the Olympic swimming trials in Brisbane in a wheelchair.
This was due to an injury sustained while filming reality TV show Celebrity Amazing Race.
But two years on he looks better than ever — and remains in fine physical condition two decades on from his first retirement.
Thorpe left the pool in 2006, before a brief comeback in 2011 was halted due to a shoulder injury.
Meanwhile, fellow Olympic champion Fox, who has three canoeing golds and six medals in total, also praised the preparations for Brisbane 2032.
She said: “Athletes want to be able to compete in the best conditions and in the best venues.
“Athletes understand that those decisions lie with the organising committee, the government and the sporting bodies, and we can put on a great show. I know it’ll be the best conditions for everyone.”
