Shayna Jack has teamed up with Cameron McEvoy in advocating for financial rewards for clean athletes who set world records. She expressed her disappointment that her Dolphins teammate received nothing for his remarkable swim, pledging to “persist in the battle.”
Last year, Greek swimmer Kristian Gkolomeev received US$1 million (A$1.4 million) for breaking the men’s 50-metre freestyle world record that had stood since 2009, representing the Enhanced Games, a controversial platform allowing athletes to compete with performance-enhancing substances.
Australia’s McEvoy claimed the 50m freestyle world record previously held by Brazil’s César Cielo, clocking 20.88 seconds at the China Open in March. The reigning Olympic champion in the one-lap event also surpassed Gkolomeev’s tainted record by just 0.01 seconds.
However, McEvoy did not receive any bonus payment for his incredible achievement because the China Open is not governed by World Aquatics.
Gkolomeev’s performance was underpinned by performance-enhancing drugs and he competed in a polyurethane suit resembling those worn during the notorious “super-suit” era of 2008-2009, including Cielo’s time, before the technology was banned.
Jack’s views on issues surrounding the Enhanced Games carry significant weight due to a scandal that dramatically affected her career and personal life. The Queensland swimmer was banned for two years after testing positive for Ligandrol in 2019, a substance prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). She has consistently maintained her innocence, and importantly, the Court of Arbitration for Sport found that Jack did not intentionally consume the banned substance.
“I definitely think this is a controversial topic, and it’s understandable that Cam is upset about not receiving financial recognition for his incredible achievement,” Jack shared on Nine’s Today.
“This is a cause that clean athletes will continue to champion, ensuring we receive the rewards for our hard work.
“It is disappointing, but Cam is an extraordinary athlete, and I believe this isn’t the end of his journey with world records.”
Shayna Jack appearing on Nine’s Today. Nine
In Brisbane, following his world record swim, McEvoy labelled it both “absurd” and “unfortunate” that he didn’t receive any financial reward, especially considering Gkolomeev’s “easier route” to the $1.4 million prize.
“Hopefully, he can replicate it and find support,” Jack remarked regarding McEvoy.
Jack is also backing a campaign by DrinkWise titled Never Have I Ever. This initiative encourages young Australians to avoid alcohol as a means of coping with stress and anxiety, instead advocating for open dialogue and seeking professional help.
Ever since her challenging interactions with WADA and Sport Integrity Australia—which sought a four-year ban in her case—Jack has been an ardent supporter of mental health awareness.
She has openly discussed the mental struggles she faced throughout this ordeal, which at times led her to contemplate suicide.
From left: Mollie O’Callaghan, Shayna Jack, Emma McKeon and Meg Harris during the medal ceremony after clinching 4x100m freestyle gold at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Getty
“Being part of the DrinkWise campaign is vitally important to me, as the Never Have I Ever initiative promotes healthier coping mechanisms for young adults experiencing stress and anxiety,” Jack explained.
“Having been through similar experiences myself, I want others to focus on their mental well-being and seek out more positive alternatives, such as reaching out to family, friends, or a coach for support.
“I hope people realise that resorting to alcohol for managing anxiety or stress isn’t the solution.”
Jack is set to compete at the Australian open-age swimming championships on the Gold Coast next week, scheduled from Monday to Wednesday.
If you or someone you know is in need of immediate assistance, please contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au. In case of emergency, call 000
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