For Brazilian swimmer Fratus, the role is a way to turn his personal journey into support for others: “It feels like an opportunity to do something with all the precious information I have collected. We all struggle sometimes, and my fellow ambassadors and I will be here to help you take it off your chest. Let’s look out for each other.”
Cheng emphasised the importance of access to support: “All elite athletes have ups and downs in their career, and it’s okay to ask for help. There are plenty of resources out there, so you need to find the best ones for you. As an ambassador, hopefully I can help athletes with that – explaining how they can get help and ensuring they receive it quickly.”
The athletes’ message is clear: mental health matters, and support is always within reach.
The IOC Mental Health Ambassadors programme forms part of the IOC’s broader commitment to supporting athlete well-being and fostering safer, more supportive environments throughout their sporting journey.