Tweddle calls time on illustrious career to take on new challenge
BRITAIN’S most decorated female gymnast Beth Tweddle, 28, has admitted a lack of focus is the reason for her decision to retire.
Tweddle made the surprising announcement on the anniversary of her bronze-medal winning performance on the uneven bars at the London 2012 Olympics.
“It’s been a hard decision to make. Gymnastics has been and always will be a massive part of my life,” said the triple world champion.
“Following the Olympics I’ve had a lot of projects on and recently I’ve had a bit more time to get back into the gym and decide whether I could put 100 per cent into it and I know now deep down I can’t commit to the hours and training to remain at the very top.”
Following her Olympic success, Tweddle took a break from competitive gymnastics, taking part in the 2013 series of ITV’s Dancing on Ice, which she won.
She will now focus her attention on the athlete-led legacy programme from the Games.
TWEDDLE’S MEDALS
• Olympic Games: One bronze
• World Champs: Three gold, two bronze
• Euro Champs: Six gold, four silver, one bronze
• World Cup: 11 gold, three silver, two bronze
• Commonwealth Games: one gold, two silver