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World aquatics Championships.">
Daniel Wiffen Sets Sights On Los Angeles Olympics After Paris Success
Magheralin Native, daniel wiffen, is charting his course toward the Los Angeles Olympics from his home soil after completing his studies at Loughborough University. fresh off his academic pursuits, the two-time Paris Games medalist is planning a return home this summer, but first, all eyes are set on Singapore.
Wiffen is laser-focused on the upcoming 2025 World Aquatics Championships, scheduled to take place from July 11 to August 3. Can he repeat his previous success?
Aiming For Gold Again At World Aquatics Championships
Wiffen, the Magheralin native, aims to replicate his performance from the last world championships, where he clinched double gold in his signature 800m and 1500m freestyle races.
“Training is going great,” Wiffen told RTE Sport. “We’ve been doing some intense sets,and I’m feeling really fast. I’m eagerly anticipating the world championships.”
He added, “I want to win gold again. I’ve already won twice,so for me,it’s about reclaiming those medals. It’s that simple.”
The Role Of Sports Analytics In Wiffen’s Training
The 23-year-old athlete revealed that he is deeply involved in sports analytics, supported by sponsors like Deloitte, seeking methods to enhance his speed and efficiency in races. Wiffen believes these analytical insights will give him an edge as he prepares for the LA Games in three years.
“I’m analyzing my performance in Paris, identifying areas for enhancement beyond not winning the gold medal,” Wiffen explained.
He elaborated, “I’m examining the analytics: Could I have turned faster? Should I have altered my breathing pattern? It’s about refining these minor details to progress each year.”
“I wasn’t perfect, not even close. That’s what excites me about LA. If I won gold operating at 80%, imagine the possibilities with the remaining 20% improvement.”
Sibling Rivalry Fuels Olympic Dreams
After securing gold in the 800m freestyle and bronze in the 1500m in Paris, Wiffen confessed to struggling with the post-victory slump. However, his competitive fire was quickly reignited, thanks to his lifelong rivalry with his twin brother, Nathan.
“My motivation dipped after Paris; the high was followed by a long holiday,” Wiffen admitted.
“but when I returned to training, nathan had been back for a month and was beating me! I hate losing, so I switched back on and started winning again. This rivalry with my brother pushes me to go faster.”
Eyes On The Prize: World Record Ambitions
Wiffen is determined to achieve back-to-back victories at the upcoming Worlds, aiming for the top spot, even without the favorite status.
“I was number one globally for a while, but some fast Germans have posted rapid times. I’m excited to race them,” Wiffen stated.
“Currently, I’m ranked second or third, so I want to climb one or two spots. I enjoy the challenge, and I prefer not being the favorite – it makes the victory narrative even better.”
While expecting medals from Singapore, Wiffen is also pushing for a personal best and potentially a world record.
“I’m definitely going for the world record,” he declared.
“Being only a second away, I feel compelled to try. I’ve set personal bests at every major international event, and I aim to do it again before breaking the world record. Time will tell.”
Returning Home To Ireland
Although absent from his university graduation next month, the college is arranging an early ceremony and photo session before his departure to Singapore. This marks the end of a successful partnership with the esteemed sports institution.
After the Worlds, Wiffen will pack his belongings – including his expanding medal collection – and return to ireland. He will then begin planning his path to the america Games in 2028, while also enjoying an off-season of golfing across Ireland.
“I’m moving back to Ireland,” Wiffen confirmed. “My rent is up in August, and I’ll be relocating.”
He added, “I haven’t appointed a coach yet, but I’m considering options. It will likely be based in Dublin. andi Manley is no longer my coach.”
“While based in Dublin, I plan prolonged training periods in different countries with various people. Since Ireland lacks the training partners I need, I’ll attend camps in America or Italy.Golfing around Ireland will be my off-season activity this year, following surfing last year.”
Key Facts: Wiffen’s Journey
| Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| Next Competition | 2025 World Aquatics Championships, Singapore (July 11 – August 3) |
| Olympic Goal | Los Angeles Olympics 2028 |
| Training Base | Moving to Dublin, Ireland |
| Previous Coach | Andi Manley (No longer his coach) |
