The world witnessed a dramatic shift 22 years ago when the devastating 9/11 attacks unfolded, leaving an indelible mark on history. Among those who experienced the fateful day was Ian Thorpe, one of swimming’s greatest champions, whose life was almost altered by the tragic events.
On the morning of September 11, 2001, Ian Thorpe found himself in New York City, a city soon to be forever changed. His plan for the day included a visit to the World Trade Center (WTC) observation deck, but fate had other intentions.
As the five-time Olympic champion embarked on an early morning run, his destination was clear: the WTC’s observation deck. However, a momentary lapse changed his course. Thorpe realized he had forgotten his camera and made a brief return to his hotel room.
It was during this short interval that the unimaginable occurred—the first plane struck the World Trade Center. Ian Thorpe’s life hung in the balance.
Recalling that day, Thorpe shared his perspective, stating, “I went down there on the morning of 9/11. It was early in the morning, and I went for a run. I grabbed a coffee and walked back to my hotel room, and literally in that period of time, the planes hit. It was a very, very close call.”
Thorpe had a friend named Michelle staying with him, and she was meant to accompany him to the World Trade Center that morning. He explained, “I said we could go up the World Trade Center in the morning and then you do the Empire State Building at night. But in the end, I was the one that went down there. With things like that, you realize it’s fate. Some things were meant to be, and I realize I am very lucky.”
At the time, Ian Thorpe was merely 18 years old, visiting New York City to explore his interests in the fashion world and discuss his recent swimming achievements, including an appearance on The Jay Leno Show.
Just two months prior, he had delivered a standout performance at the 2001 World Championships in Fukuoka. Thorpe secured six gold medals and set four world records in the men’s 200 free (1:44.06), 400 free (3:40.17), 800 free (7:39.16), and on Australia’s 800 free relay (7:04.66). These accomplishments followed his memorable Olympic debut in Sydney, where he clinched gold in the men’s 400 free, anchored the Aussie men’s 400 free relay to victory, and earned a third gold in the 800 free relay, along with additional silvers.
Following his narrow escape from the events of September 11, Thorpe continued to make waves in the world of swimming. His remarkable performance at the 2004 Olympics in Athens, notably winning the Race of the Century in the men’s 200 free, cemented his legacy. He also defended his title in the 400 free, narrowly edging out compatriot Grant Hackett.
Thorpe’s swimming journey included three additional World Championship titles in 2003 and a world record of 3:40.08 in the 400 free at the 2002 Commonwealth Games—a record that stood as the fastest in history in a textile suit until 2009.
Despite his accomplishments, Thorpe faced challenges and eventually retired in 2006 due to bronchitis, withdrawing from the Commonwealth Games. He attempted a comeback in 2011 with hopes of competing in the 2012 Olympics in London but fell short during the Australian Olympic Trials.
Beyond his swimming career, Ian Thorpe has continued to make a positive impact. He has been a vocal advocate for same-sex marriage in Australia and openly discussed his struggles with depression, shedding light on the challenges he faced as an elite athlete and a gay man. In 2017, he presented a two-part documentary to raise awareness about the effects of bullying.
The events of September 11, 2001, forever changed the world. According to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, these attacks resulted in the tragic loss of 2,977 lives across New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. Ian Thorpe’s story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of fate and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
Image Source: Google
