Chinese 12-Year-Old Wins World Swimming Bronze, Sharron Davies Praises Talent

Sharron Davies, who began her Olympic swimming career at 13, expressed admiration for Chinese swimmer Yu Zidi, who became the youngest world championships medallist at 12. Davies reflected on her own early experiences, stating that competing at a young age did not cause her trauma but rather excitement and growth, contrasting it with the pressure older athletes face in their final competitions. She suggested that Yu's experience at 12 was likely one of joy and opportunity, rather than stress, emphasizing the lack of pressure felt at such a young age. Davies, a seasoned Olympian who won silver in the 400m Individual Medley at the 1980 Moscow Olympics, dismissed concerns over safeguarding and mental health raised by some about young elite athletes. She recalled being 'on cloud nine' as a young athlete, appreciating the chance to compete without the weight of expectations. Overall, Davies highlighted the positive aspects of youth competition and the unique mindset young athletes have when entering elite sports.