Training and Technique

Diamond trains with his shotgun once every two weeks and follows a fitness programme. He believes that less frequent practice helps him maintain mental sharpness. "I've done more than 10,000 hours of practice," he said. "What's going to make me perfect on the day is being able to control my emotions."

International Debut and Achievements

Diamond made his international debut at the World Cup Shooting event. Over the years, he has received numerous accolades. He was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) and named New South Wales Shooter of the Year for 11 consecutive years.

Olympic Success

Diamond's gold medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics was Australia's first shooting gold since 1900. He defended his title four years later in Sydney, becoming only the second trap shooter to achieve this feat. His success has cemented his place in Australian sports history.

Awards and Honours

In addition to his Olympic success, Diamond has been inducted into both the Australian Sports Hall of Fame and the Australian Clay Target Hall of Fame. These honours reflect his significant contributions to the sport.

Personal Life

Diamond resides in Port Stephens, NSW, Australia, and is fluent in English and Greek. He has three children, including daughters Isabella and Angelica. Despite his busy schedule, he manages to balance his personal life with his professional commitments.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Diamond aims to equal Australian swimmer Dawn Fraser's record of winning three gold medals in the same sport at an Olympic Games. He also plans to compete at future events such as the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast and the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

Philosophy and Approach

Diamond's sporting philosophy is simple yet profound: "Work hard, play hard, take each day as it comes." This motto has guided him throughout his career, helping him navigate both successes and challenges.

Michael Diamond's journey in clay target shooting is marked by dedication and excellence. From his early beginnings inspired by his father to his numerous accolades and future ambitions, Diamond continues to be a prominent figure in Australian sports.