Aug 1, 2024, 12:00 AM
Aug 1, 2024, 12:00 AM

Tom Daley unveils his latest Olympic knitting handiwork

Highlights
  • Tom Daley, a British diver, has taken a unique approach at the Paris Aquatic Center by knitting during downtime.
  • This contrasts with fellow athletes who may be preoccupied with competition stress.
  • Daley's creative outlet shines a light on the importance of hobbies for mental wellness in high-pressure environments.
Story

While many Olympic divers at the Paris Aquatic Center are filled with pre-competition nerves, British diver Tom Daley is channeling his energy into a creative endeavor. The 30-year-old athlete, who recently secured his fifth Olympic medal, has showcased his latest project: a hand-knitted sweater inspired by the Paris Games. The vibrant design features alternating trims of the French tricolor and the British Union Jack, with "Daley" emblazoned on the back in bold white letters. Daley has been sharing his knitting journey with fans through his popular Instagram account, @madewithlovebytomdaley, which has garnered over a million followers. He has been spotted knitting during breaks between events and while supporting teammates, emphasizing his need to stay active. “I don’t know how to just do nothing,” he remarked in a recent CNN interview, crediting his husband, Oscar-winning screenwriter Dustin Lance Black, for encouraging him to take up knitting during downtime. This marks Daley's second Olympic-themed sweater, a tradition he began during the 2020 lockdown. His first creation was a cream cardigan featuring “Tokyo” in Japanese, designed to serve as a keepsake of his Olympic experiences. Now, with the upcoming 2024 Games, Daley aims to capture the essence of Paris in his latest piece, meticulously planning the design and technical aspects of the knitting process. In addition to his personal projects, Daley has launched a branded knitting kit, allowing fans to create their own pieces. He finds inspiration in everyday moments, such as observing nature, and believes that knitting complements his diving career, blending creativity with athleticism.

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