Simone Manuel Explains Withdrawal From Nationals: ‘Investment For the Future’

Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick

Simone Manuel was not entered on the psych sheet for the 2023 U.S. National Championships in Indianapolis, and the Olympic gold medalist explained her decision on social media.

Manuel has been battling overtraining syndrome, a process that she is still working through.

“Swim update: After discussions with my coaches and thoughtful consideration, I have decided not to race at this year’s Nationals,” Simone Manuel posted on Facebook. “This year has been full of new challenges for me. Quite frankly, it’s really not as simple as it may seem. There were a lot of steps, precautions, and patience to get my body back to normalcy and adjusting to a new training environment. I can confidently say that I’ve made great progress this year. I remember what I couldn’t do, not too long ago.

“As I continue to progress, it’s important for me to feel mentally and physically good about my competition schedule and the purpose of each one I attend. Not competing at Nationals is not a decision I took lightly, but I firmly believe that this sacrifice is an investment for the future.

“The goal has always been to be my best for the 2024 Olympic Trials and hopefully, Paris. I know I can’t reach that goal if I’m not patient with myself and this process, so this summer, I will be prioritizing that. The journey continues!

“The support of my coaches and teammates has been phenomenal, and I can’t wait to see them kill it at Nationals!”

Manuel has been training with Bob Bowman at Sun Devil Aquatics and recently had a strong meet at the TYR Pro Swim Series in Fort Lauderdale.

“I feel good about it. It is a step in the right direction. It has really only been my second meet after taking 18 months away from competition,” Simone Manuel said in Fort Lauderdale. “It is a different experience to come to these meets and know I am not going to have the possibility of winning. I didn’t really know what to expect, but for me it is about putting one foot in front of the other and being able to see some progress. It is my first time in a while, racing three days prelims-finals. It is fun to be back out here.”

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Carlos Oliveira

11 months ago

Wise decision. Paris 2024 is your next milestone. 💪👏🙌