GOLD COAST – Although he definitely has downplayed the potential outcome of a comeback, Australian distance freestyle legend Grant Hackett confirmed that he’s coming back to competitive swimming.
This news comes after fellow legend Ian Thorpe had an unsuccessful return to the sport recently.
“(Ian) didn’t make comebacks look overly attractive, it was probably more of a deterrent,” Hackett said in comments published by News Ltd media. “That is probably why I’m more reserved and more humble because of watching that. At the age of 34, which is extremely old for swimming particularly after six years off, it becomes a challenge for me in my own mind of ‘how fast can you go at this age?’ The most interesting thing is my body can still handle doing a fair bit of work which is great, that is why I think I’ve been able to get fit relatively quick.”
Hackett, who had a battle with a Stillnox addiction that included a rehab stint, first broke news that he was back in the pool to help regain his fitness level back in September. But, now, Hackett confirmed that he’s back in the drug testing pool and has entered Australia’s national trials in April.
That’s pretty much the Michael Phelps comeback script. Make it known you are back in the water for fitness, then after enough time has passed, go public with an actual meet entry.
Hackett, formerly the best distance swimmer on the planet in his prime, has already said he’s not planning on making any major waves. He has “modest goals” for his return, and it is more about his “personal well-being.”
But, Hackett returns with a resume that includes 10 world titles and a trio of Olympic golds. So, he’s likely still hoping to make an impact even at 34 years of age.