Ian Thorpe, affectionately nicknamed “Thorpedo” and “Thorpey,” is a retired Australian swimmer with a net worth of $6 million. Born on October 13, 1982, in Sydney, New South Wales, Thorpe rose to become one of the world’s top swimmers despite overcoming a chlorine allergy. Known for his incredible achievements, he won five Olympic gold medals, making him one of the most-awarded Australian Olympians until Emma McKeon tied his record. Currently 41 years old, Thorpe remains an influential figure in the sports world, with various ventures contributing to his wealth.
Athletic Roots
Ian James Thorpe was born into a family with a strong athletic background. His father, Ken Thorpe, was a promising cricketer, and his mother, Margaret, excelled in netball. However, it was his sister Christina’s prescription to swim to strengthen her broken wrist that introduced Ian to the sport. At just five years old, Thorpe began swimming, though he faced the challenge of a chlorine allergy. Undeterred, he learned to swim with his head above water and won his first race at a school carnival by age seven. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 229 pounds with size 17 feet, his physical attributes contributed significantly to his early success.
Rise to Stardom
Thorpe’s swimming career quickly took off as he built up a tolerance to chlorine. At 14, he became the youngest male ever to represent Australia. His breakthrough came at the 1998 Perth World Championships, where he won the 400-meter freestyle, making him the youngest male World Champion ever. Thorpe’s success continued with an impressive performance at the New South Wales Age Championships, winning all ten swimming events. By 2005, he had earned two bronze medals at the Australian Age Championships.
Olympic Triumphs
Ian Thorpe is celebrated for his outstanding Olympic career, tied with Emma McKeon for the most Olympic gold medals won by an Australian, with five. His most notable achievements came during the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, where he won three gold and two silver medals, making him the most successful athlete of the games. He became the only male to medal in the 100, 200, and 400-meter events. Although Thorpe attempted a comeback for the 2012 Olympics, he did not qualify for the team.
Records and Recognition
Thorpe’s illustrious career includes setting 13 world records and winning eleven World Championship gold medals. He was the first person named “Swimming World” Swimmer of the Year four times and was Australian Swimmer of the Year from 1999 to 2003. His dominance in the pool and his consistent performance made him one of Australia’s most popular athletes.
Beyond the Pool
Beyond swimming, Thorpe pursued interests in fashion, serving as an ambassador for Armani and launching his line of designer jewelry and underwear. His endorsements included high-profile Australian corporations such as Qantas, Telstra, and the Seven Network, alongside his Adidas swimsuit sponsorship. These ventures contributed significantly to his net worth and established him as a multi-faceted personality beyond the swimming pool.
Advocacy and Awareness
After retiring from competitive swimming, Ian Thorpe continued to make his mark in various fields. In 2017, he presented “Bullied,” a two-part television documentary on ABC that used hidden camera footage to depict the perspective of bullying victims. The show aimed to raise awareness and foster empathy towards those who experience bullying.
Culinary Interests
Thorpe also explored his culinary interests by competing in Celebrity MasterChef Australia in 2021, where he was the fourth contestant to be eliminated. His passion for cooking led him to write two cookbooks: “Cook For Your Life” and “Eat Well Now,” which focus on healthy and nutritious recipes. These books reflect his commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle, drawing from his experiences as an elite athlete.
Inspirational Journey
Ian Thorpe’s journey from a young swimmer with a chlorine allergy to an Olympic legend is a story of resilience and determination. His achievements in the pool have left an indelible mark on the world of swimming, while his ventures outside of sports have showcased his versatility. Despite retiring from competitive swimming, Thorpe remains an influential figure, using his platform to advocate for important social issues and inspire future generations.
Lasting Legacy
Ian Thorpe’s legacy as one of Australia’s greatest swimmers is complemented by his diverse pursuits in fashion, television, and culinary arts. With a net worth of $6 million, his story is one of overcoming challenges and continuously striving for excellence. Thorpe’s impact on swimming and his contributions to various fields make him a remarkable figure whose influence extends far beyond the pool. As he continues to explore new avenues and share his experiences, Ian Thorpe remains a beloved and respected icon in the world of sports and beyond.