Joseph Schooling: My mistake was the complacency to think that this will last forever

Eight years after his stunning success at the Rio Olympics, Singapore’s greatest athlete Joseph Schooling has called time on his career and has announced his retirement.
In an exclusive interview, Joseph talks frankly to ST assistant sports editor Rohit Brijnath about his career - from the Olympic gold to mistakes made, and the next chapter of his life.
Read more: str.sg/mnMi
0:23 Getting used to retirement
0:58 The downsides of fame
1:51 Life after gold
3:09 Mistakes after 2016
3:37 Overconfident? Entitled?
4:59 Volatile in the pool
6:19 Advice from Michael Phelps
7:22 The cannabis episode
9:31 The next chapter
Follow The Straits Times on KZbin: str.sg/ytsub
Turn on notifications 🔔 to stay updated.
--------------------
WEBSITE ➤ www.straitstim...
WHATSAPP ➤ str.sg/whatsapp
TIKTOK ➤ / straitstimes
INSTAGRAM ➤ / straits_times
FACEBOOK ➤ / thestraitstimes
TWITTER ➤ / straits_times
TELEGRAM ➤ t.me/TheStrait...
PODCASTS ➤ str.sg/stpodcasts
#straitstimes #josephschooling #retirement

[@straitstimesonline]

Schooling’s 2016 gold ‘so impressive’, says Michael Phelps on Singaporean swimmer str.sg/gqYx

[@nicholasgoh3526]

He won the Olympic gold medal for Singapore on his own with the support from his family. Nothing to do with the system and I think Singaporeans should thank him for that Olympic moment. He should be proud to be a sports legend in history. Good luck and all the best!

[@jayden8305]

yea... he brought glory to our tiny red dot when he won that olympic medal, he inspired a generation of aspiring swimmers and showed that sinahpore can win something even with less resources, people and space , it showed that if someone is to succeed they ought to work hard and this is contributed by his parents teaching. did the governent teach him that ? no 7:35

[@marinekong235]

yeah his parents did the sacrifice, thank the parents first though. but would he enter the olympics if he was competing under another flag?

[@briangan3133]

He was born rich

[@marinekong235]

@@briangan3133 hope he stays that way till the later years of his life

[@whatthefitt]

@@briangan3133 Your research from rubbish university? His family lives in HDB. If they are rich, they be living in landed or condo.

[@theWatchowskiBrosNowSis]

He doesn’t owe anyone or S’pore an apology he won the Olympic gold on his own accord his family not through the S’pore system. Happy retirement Olympic champ!

[@sherlynnteo8985]

I’m 😊😊😊

[@briangan3133]

He was born rich

[@MTMT-wm2dq]

Sports don't go well with drugs and have to retire a big loser because of his wrong doing. He shame himself his mother his country.

[@whatthefitt]

@@briangan3133 🤡

[@NazriBuang-w9v]

Lies again? Olympic Medals Jules Rimet

[@jtbroker]

Singapore's only Olympic gold medallist, made history, made sacrifices throughout since young. I think ppl should cut him some slack. all the best champ!

[@thecowegg]

Well said. How many 21 yr old can reproduce what he did...let's sit back and watch before we judge him again.

[@jtbroker]

@@ydjh hes a spore citizen representing Singapore isnt it? So now u gonna scrutinise every athlete’s origin or venue of training? There are alot of medalists that trained overseas outside their home country so u gonna call the countries out for that too? How narrow minded can u be?

[@LWC8]

I have a lot of respect for this young man. He went through 2 lifetimes of experiences, more than what most of us will ever go through. The self-awareness and humility he showed through this interview indicates that he is learning and reflecting from it. I won't remember him for his drug use, I will remember him as the guy who set his sights on a singular goal and worked super hard at it until he achieved it. Discipline, determination, diligence. Every single day. He scaled the Mount Everest in terms of sports. Even if he is no longer at the top (or he took a tumble), it doesn't take away anything from his achievement. Remember the day he won? All of us were jumping up and down, beaming from pride that he did it! Pure joy! Thanks for giving that special moment to us, Joseph!

[@marthenryb8398]

Singapore's first OLYMPIC GOLD MEDAL. Historical. Blessed nation and always be thankful. Thank you Joseph!

[@ckc75]

As a swim parent in Texas who has been to the Univ of Texas (UT) Austin pool many times, I remember seeing your name on their pool record board & feeling quite proud that an Asian swimmer has made such a mark. Best of luck in your retirement Joseph!

[@danialrhn]

Olympic Champion. No one can ever take that away from you. Happy retirement legend!

[@vincentong8867]

Joseph Schooling's historic victory at the 2016 Olympics showed that even the smallest nations can achieve global sporting greatness. Schooling's dedication and resilience since the age of 6 have inspired countless Singaporeans, embodying the belief that with hard work and determination, any dream is achievable. His legacy transcends the gold medal; it's a beacon of hope, encouraging us to pursue excellence, challenge limits, and believe in the boundless potential within. Thank you, Joseph, for lifting our nation's spirit and showing us the power of dreams.

[@RC-rp3eu]

All the very best to you Joseph. You are candid and somewhat hard on yourself. You've done incredibly remarkable in winning the gold medal. It is time to move on. You have done beyond your best. Also. You speak beautifully and you think deeply. Very impressive. You are a good guy. Stay strong. All the best.

[@LYJManchesterUnited]

I didn't need his example to proof we can do it.. No science can proof that Singaporean's DNA are shitter at sports than any other countries out there, we're all human beings. If Manny Pacquiao skinny small and hopelessly poor lad from philipinese could do it why not our kids? It showed only a rich kid sponsored by rich parents can do it and only if he trained not here. He did it despite of Singapore's system. The rest are just victims of the Singapore system.

[@gnorwgnihtondidreltiH]

Ok ChatGPT

​@SwimSphereTV yep, SG did not help at all. Infact I think it ruined him thanks to its system and NS. How does the SG goverment expect to reach success in sports if they have NS to screw over potential.

[@kiansoon2916]

To be a champion is one awesome life milestone - to live beyond that takes much more wisdoms and careful life choices. As said, you are the platform and cannot live for yourself anymore. With retirement, you have officially stepped down. All the best and thank you for bringing joys to Singapore

[@DanSurprise]

Awesome interview! I hope Joseph can coach the next generation swimmers to another Olympic medal.

[@silenthill5922]

Thank you, ST for this insightful and honest interview with the most accomplished SG athlete of this generation. Thank you, Joseph for the candid replies and to you and especially, your parents for all your contributions in making SG proud, representing us and being sensible and responsible at this stage in your career. My personal hope is that although you may have retired from competitive swimming as a swimmer, SG competitive swimming would have not seen the last of you!

[@kixigvak]

I'm 76 years old and once upon a time I was a fast butterfly swimmer. You've been a real inspiration to me. Take my advice and stay in reasonably good shape. It's tough to make the transition from top level to maintaining fitness. But you'll find your comfortable place.

[@logix8983]

Got to give it to him for his honesty!

[@crosbyong]

We all make mistakes. But not many, of us can be an Olympian, even less, an Olympian champion. Thank you for what you’ve done and achieved for us. It’s good that you’ve taken time to mull over all that’s happened, and is moving on with the next chapter of your life. I wish you all the best in all your endeavour. Take care.

[@joegoh1968]

I wonder if Singaporean realise how difficult it is to even qualify for the Olympics. What Schooling did can be considered a miracle.

[@mamemo359]

Some ppl said that he became cocky after winning the Olympics, but I've never got that from him. He seems to be a really nice kid who got lost without proper guidance, and who can blame him? Ppl criticising him have already forgotten the mistakes they made when they were younger.

[@zainabali9185]

All the best to you Jo. You can do it!🫶🏊🏽‍♂️

[@TofiYee]

Joseph your story is inspiring to many. The reality in life is there is up and down, knowing how to become better in each cycle, sharing with others how to do so will give meaning to life. What you are doing now is exactly that. Meanwhile keep your head up high above the water!

[@sswsa3980]

I am so proud of this man. Thank you for all that you do and did, Joseph!

[@Abraham-uk4xy]

He is the product of the USA University sports system. He did it himself with his parents financial support and huge.motivation especially from his mother. If he was from the Singapore sports system he wouldn't have won the gold. He owes Singapore nothing. Happy retirement sir.

[@patsarmiento5986]

Carlos Yulo of PH must take notes from this. Thank you Joseph Schooling for sharing your awesome journey.

[@robictibay5747]

Carlos yulo will retire at the age of 50

[@ownthegame3]

a very good interview. v authentic, v matured what u said is applicable to everyone and you learnt it at such a young age. all the best!

[@jessesmith-garcia5313]

God speed and good luck to you in life Joseph Schooling...You'll always be "The Champ".

[@TheFire9flyer]

After watching tge interview, i have a lot more respect for you. Thank you for the honesty. It inspired me a lot and helped me to understand myself better. I am at your father's age. You are at 28. I can only tell you life is getting tougher and tougher. Where to go next ? Who to hang around with ? You are on your own, my friend. Be wise.

[@sohjae]

Bravo to this young champion, and talking about his journey. Always a Singapore champion!

[@Nerosink2000]

wow 8 years has past since that gold ... felt like yesterday ! time flies

[@siddd88]

He appeared before covid years

[@raheemam]

You are a Champion.... live like a Champion forever....nothing matters.....

[@fabric101]

I was prepared to bash this video. But major two thumbs up to the questions and to Schooling. I said it after he won the Gold, that he's being complacent and self entitled, and it's amzing to see him actually addressing it and admitting it. Much respect for him to admit it so openly. Salute.

[@MasterChief3377425]

I think the cannabis episode also brought him back to earth

[@michaelwongTravels]

It's true that when you spent your entire childhood passionately pursuing your dream of becoming an Olympic champion, once you achieved it at just 21, you really do feel that you have already accomplished your life goal. If the most inspiring person that's dear to you, that walked and breathe with you on that journey is gone, it does leave a vacuum that nothing in the world can fill, you really have to find another mountain to climb. Thanks Joe, for putting Singapore on the map of swimming that till now, no one else can.

[@kambingliar]

All the best for the next chapter of your life. Your name will forever be remembered by Singaporeans for many many years to come

[@davidaden6191]

thank you for such an honest and insightful interview, Joseph and Strait Times. Even in this moment, you were still inspiring for us! Go climb that next mountain, Joseph!

[@CheeEddie]

Well done! I will support you all the way no matter what is your next step/ next level of future.

[@GeeWhizzzz]

Personal financial input from his parents - Got us that Gold. No one else. Not the system.

[@newjourney9220]

Hats off to you Joseph and your family. Admitting your weaknesses and mistakes are your strength and recipes to move forward in life. All the best from Malaysia

[@blessedcheflim8579]

We all love you with much understanding of what you went through. All the very best, Jia Yu❤

[@zzplant6864]

All the best Joseph in your future endeavours. Kudos to your courage and openness. Wishing you success and happiness.

[@frdingsdb16]

Good for you Joseph. Chasing away your own demons and courageously share your journey makes you a "Champion" of life. Continue winning "gold"medals not made of metal but of honesty, discipline and hard work. Setback and mistakes can also moments of much growth. Inspire more with your journey, Champ!

[@Mrnonolol]

The best is yet to be

[@rolandnelson6722]

Joseph’s making a terrific contribution analysing his success and his response to his success.

[@NRClips3414]

Joseph is really well spoken, glad he is interviewing.

[@PabloNivag]

Yall better be appreciative of the sacrifices this man has done and the effort hes given to our country. We are too quick to criticise athletes when they lose.

[@sarangsharma5346]

So impressed with his maturity. When he was 21 he was like a bullet, now he is a calm strong wave of water

[@RogerLau1678]

Good to be able to reflect and let go. All the best champ 💪🏼🙏🏻

[@BekindToAll24]

He speaks with wisdom🎉

[@agnusborealis9362]

Best wishes Joseph! Embrace with excitement the next phase your life has to offer you. Always be the lightning rod!

[@andytan911]

He already owned his place in history, still proud of him no matter what he done off the pool.

[@Jesperthebouncingfatty]

Joseph Schooling, your impact on countless Singaporeans is immeasurable. Thank you for creating unforgettable memories and moments. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors.

[@mookingbird]

He did well and he should be proud of what he has achieved! I don't think SG really contributed much to him in terms of helping him get to Olympics, he and his family worked hard to provide him with international level coaching...

[@MyHanck]

Happy retirement and thanks for the memories.

[@wassup139]

I wonder if he is based in the USA, would he still be continuing with what he is doing? Perhaps something is lacking in the SG system which could not help to flourish his potential further. I believe he would actually flourish more if he is based in the USA that has better resources, support, coaches, and system for sportsmen. Not to mention, SG likes to make a big deal out of sportsmen who take drugs. This affects the sportsmen psychologically in some way. However in the USA, I doubt it’s such a big deal and it’s easier for sportsmen to move on from drug-related issues. He has such a huge potential to flourish in this career. To retire so soon is a waste, but fully supporting his decision. However, I believe fundamentally there is something wrong or missing in the SG system that did not allow the talented Schooling to flourish even more.

[@raquelrachelle9357]

Very down to earth person.

[@HCL882]

He's still an inspiration... although I wish he will make a comeback

[@roshiniganesan8877]

All the best to Joseph.

[@cheemengpoh9099]

Happy retirement and thanks for the memories

[@lesleytao1915]

Very strong personality. Many congrats on your success

[@dunlop9292]

Amazing interview. Thank you for giving me a perspective of good faith in my own life Joseph. If God’s Grace allows, may we cross path one day. God bless you in your endeavours and your family. Rrd from 🇲🇾

[@QuasiDonloso-xq7gr]

U r still the best Schooling🎉🎉🎉 Cannabis ? Don't let that episode hold you down. That episode is over.... move on with your life .. Life has so much to offer to you ... Live the next episode of your Life meaningfully 😊

[@madanarathimadangopal5890]

Appreciate the maturity & vulnerability❤ go for the next mountain 🎉

[@gboon9935]

thank you for sharing on your thoughts and experience with complacency , on how the perfect recipe mix of ego, pride and attitude. We all have it, just the difference in intensity... and I wish more young gen/next gen can hear this....and understand this. it really is not just a recipe mix of complacency, but also a recipe for self-destruction.

[@seandee5342]

Thank you USA for having him proper training and environment

[@emmajewelry]

He is very eloquent ❤️

[@charlestxfilm]

Good interview. Keep up the good work in your next chapter and inspire the next generation. Cheers!

[@user-zh8db1dt6e]

It has long been said that the hardest part of championship is not to achieve it, but to maintain n retain it.

[@nikoskostianis4973]

He’s earned a lot of respect from me. You could notice he got extremely cocky after his gold and it showed at NCAA’s. I love that he’s admitting to it.

[@ongwill]

All the best Joseph

[@phyrruskarimarmalgold3660]

Happy Retirement

[@JackTanYJ]

The Straits Times does have anymore local reporters to interview a local athlete ?

[@AccordGTR]

Poor guy. He has to talk to people that don't understand. He did everything and more. He's an idol to millions. He's immortal.

[@terencetang7340]

Well said Joseph!

[@blurfonz88]

He is a legend.

[@mengtan8347]

He is real not a legend.

[@gtankngeastgreen8424]

Like his honesty.

[@briangmoh5261]

It is almost a curse to win Olympic medals in small Southeast Asian nations like Singapore or even in Malaysia. Athletes will have a tough time balancing instant fame, heightened expectation and public scrutiny. On the other hand, people like Joseph was probably extremely lucky to perform really great for just one occasion, and spent the rest of their life unable to come anywhere close to their Olympic medal's winning performance. He shouldn't have any regret, he is one of the luckiest one hit wonders....

[@maxp670]

Even Caleb Dressel after wining at Tokyo Olympic 100m Butterfly with world record at 49.45s is also broken down mentally.

[@billybob6604]

Winning is not always physical it’s mental also

[@1secondlate]

I don't understand why he needs to apologise? He won the gold medal pretty much using his own and family expenses (training etc). When he won the gold, he was the golden boy, something happens and immediately everyone forgets all the joy and proud moments he gave us. Btw he sang Majulah Singapura loud and clear even though he spent most of this time in states training.

[@anirbansarkar6306]

6:55 Great athletes have always said that they only play sports for themselves and their loved ones, not for the people/crowd who are shouting at the stadium or watching them on broadcast.

[@joelvelasquez8393]

You are the best Singaporean athlete for me as a Filipino

[@walterwine]

LMAO

[@basillee3886]

No one can take away the fact that he is the FIRST Olympic Gold medalist from SG and has inspired young athletes to do the same. You did Singapore and Singaporean proud on the grand stage.

[@sternritter9788]

Money and power does not change a person. It just amplifies and brings out their true desires.

[@vdan2879]

Life is a school of hard knocks.

[@johnlim1678]

Was this retirement news made in the front page of Straits Times? I don't buy newspapers these days. anyone knows?

[@ethanpoon3122]

Don’t think he made any mistakes, he is just going about his life after his achievements. Stupid phrasing of the questions.

[@ramoncoutriers]

Always wondered what happened to this. Beating 3 of the best butterflies. Some may say one hit wonder I say amazing

[@Jupe367]

I did not expect him to retire so early. I thought he will be the next Micheal Phelps.

[@markfish1113]

He is flash in pan though sniping 1 style of gold, Phelps is the better overall swimmer.

[@tarZenization]

@@markfish1113 That's a really funny thing to say. Phelps is the greatest olympian ever with 23 gold medals. "Phelps is the better swimmer." YOU DON'T SAY!!!!

[@billybob6604]

I remember his prime

[@user-ry1bk8wu8q]

Dumbsh*t is something one do in the 20s as much as making The You one wanted. At 28 to reflect on past experiences is a good thing. Doing The Same after 30 just NOT Cute anymore. Good 4 U... All The Best for your Future Endeavours.❤

[@phungmoe2302]

u mistake is.... no other Singaporean for the country to put their expectation towards too. But now, no worries Max took over already! So have a good life and be an ordinary man.

[@CheeEddie]

Yes, he won the Olympic Gold Medal only with the support from his mom and dad plus his own determination...

[@GeeWhizzzz]

Thats right 👍👍 Personal financial input from his parents - Got us that Gold. No one else. Not the system.

[@ongernie7216]

He should ask what the government taken away from him. His champion gold all comes from his family nothing from the government. But the limelight was snatch from him.

[@christiannielsenalaiza6371]

What happened to him definitely a lesson most winners learn, often the hard way. To be asked, what’s next and they fumble. Because there is no plan for what’s next. There’s no direction. Hoping he finds a new dream. A new direction. Something solid and worth having. More importantly, hoping he’ll be there for the next Singaporean champion.

[@finaboykm]

You need to embrace the gift that was given to you ( Gold medal),accept the fact that no one is infallible and luckily you have a life/joy outside of swimming. Those who “ crown “ will easily “crucify “as well. You’ve been to the mountain top, now sit down and enjoy the view because they can never take away your achievement. Embrace your “ Plan B” called having a life/ being happier..

[@anghockseng5686]

Is ok Life is more than swimming and there other thing to do

[@papa-dt1cv]

Carlos yulo will win again?

[@marinekong235]

what happened to Ang Peng Siong?

[@Jon-bf2rs]

He won the Olympic gold and reach the pinnacle but everything goes downhill from there he was not motivated anymore, this is the general problem of our youngsters in general nowadays, not hungry enough for continual success.

[@davidseow3122]

He has won Singapore only olympic gold medal. He is a super achiever. He does need to explain anything to anyone. Try a win an Olympic gold first us? So critic can shut up.

[@jimw8615]

Give him back his life. Leave him alone.

[@DN-kz7xl]

Why and how do people start taking cannabis?

[@tommyliangwei3724]

Posted on 2nd February 2024

[@keekengho-jq1qe]

Why no one able to guide him or prepare him during that period (best period of his career. not totally his own doing but it is a failure of the system bcos the system nvr win before also... have to think broadly and he himself wont be the failure alone.