‘Why Not Me?’: Cate Campbell Hints at Potential Olympic Return

Australian swimming icon Cate Campbell has hinted that the introduction of the complete set of 50m events for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics might lure her back into competitive swimming.

New one-lap races in butterfly, backstroke, and breaststroke will be incorporated into the swimming schedule, marking 40 years since the 50m freestyle was first contested at the Seoul 1988 Olympics.

This announcement has already motivated British swimmer Adam Peaty to declare his intention to qualify for the LA Games, alongside South African veteran Roland Schoeman, who will be turning 48 just two weeks prior to the opening ceremony.

When asked if she would consider aiming for LA, Campbell noted that the news had indeed made her “sit down and do the maths,” but she otherwise avoided giving a direct answer.

“With that announcement and the news regarding the Brisbane Olympic venues, I found myself thinking, ‘how long can I keep this going?'” she remarked on Nine’s Wide World of Sports.

“I believe this will encourage more athletes to stick with the sport. I love the butterfly stroke, but not having to swim two laps of it—one lap is more than sufficient for me.

“It’s challenging, yet enjoyable. This adds a bit of variety to the sport, which can become somewhat monotonous during training.”

When pressed for a clearer answer regarding her future, Campbell acknowledged that while she hasn’t closed the door on a comeback, it’s probably a “no” for now.

“However, Roland Schoeman will be 48 and has expressed his intent to return. So if he can do it, why not me?” she said.

“I’m not ready to say it’s completely off the table.”

The newly added swimming events are part of 22 extra gold medals that will be contested at the LA Olympics, alongside an array of mixed-gender team events in athletics, golf, artistic gymnastics, archery, coastal rowing, and table tennis.