Leaders pay tribute to Thorpe's swimming legacy.

Leaders pay tribute to Thorpe's swimming legacy. :

"The five time Olympic gold medallist told a media conference in Sydney that swimming is no longer a priority in his life and he wants to explore other challenges.

Thorpe says not even the prospect of more medals or records could motivate him to stay in the pool."

I still feel privileged to have shared the same time and planet as Ian Thorpe. He has given hours and hours of his young life to bring us accolades and glory which is why he is probably much in need of a chance to frame his own opportunities and carve his own life. We'd all love him to take us to those heady heights again. We all know he can bring home the gold and records for Australia. He has one life so it isn't about us, it is about him. In terms of serving his country he has done more than enough. What else can he achieve because he eclipsed anyone else in the pool and was in a class of his own? Maybe he'll feel like inspiring others. Maybe not. Maybe we'll get another Ian Thorpe. I doubt it. He is truly unique and it has been a very difficult life for him because he has had to constantly shine and then meet our needs. So it's not about us. He will maybe muddle through a bit finding his path in life. He is still young and will be able to completely change the direction of his life at the moment. Maybe he wants to control his destiny instead of working in harness.Whatever he chooses to do...even if it's sit on the sofa and enjoy the company of friends and watch others swim, I wish him well. He is so remarkable.