Daley made his international debut in 2007, representing Great Britain. He quickly rose to prominence, becoming the first British diver to win gold at the World Championships in 2009. At just 15 years old, he became the youngest British diver to win a world championship medal.

Daley continued to excel, winning additional world championship gold medals in 2015 and 2017. His Olympic career is equally impressive, with four medals to his name, including a gold in the synchronised 10m platform at the Tokyo 2020 Games.

Injuries and Challenges

Throughout his career, Daley has faced numerous injuries. In 2018 alone, he dealt with shin injuries, a hip injury, and a concussion. Despite these setbacks, he won gold in the synchronised 10m platform at the Commonwealth Games that year.

Earlier injuries included an elbow injury in 2013 and a triceps injury in 2010. These challenges have not deterred him from achieving remarkable success in diving.

Personal Life

Daley resides in London with his husband Dustin Lance Black and their son Robert, born in 2018. Black is a screenwriter who won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for the film 'Milk'. Daley's personal interests include yoga, meditation, knitting, and crocheting.

Philosophy and Recognition

Daley lives by the motto: "You have to want it more than anything. You have to be willing to miss out on everything." This dedication has earned him numerous awards. He was named Outstanding Diver of 2021/22 by British Swimming and received an OBE in the 2022 New Year Honours list.

He has also been recognised as Male Diver of the Year multiple times by the European Swimming Federation and received the FINA Best Male Diver Award in 2017.

Other Interests and Contributions

Apart from diving, Daley competed in judo as a junior and represented Devon. He took up knitting in 2020, which he says has positively impacted his diving. He even knitted poolside during the Tokyo Olympics and later auctioned off his creations for charity.

Daley took a break from diving in mid-2018 to spend time with his son but returned to competition in March 2019. He credits this break with helping him rediscover his love for diving.

The Tom Daley Diving Academy

Daley is also involved in promoting diving through the Tom Daley Diving Academy at the London Aquatics Centre. The programme aims to make diving accessible to people of all ages and skill levels. Daley hopes that participants will eventually join Olympic teams.

Tom Daley's journey from a young diver in Plymouth to an internationally recognised athlete is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. His contributions extend beyond personal achievements, as he continues to inspire future generations through his academy and charitable efforts.