‘Overwhelming’: Cody Simpson’s message after Comm Games swimming heroics

Cody Simpson completed a remarkable return to the pool at the Commonwealth Games, and he says he’s been overwhelmed by the experience.

Cody Simpson says he has been overwhelmed by messages of support following his successful Commonwealth Games campaign.

Simpson, who quit swimming to pursue a professional music career, completed a stunning return to the pool in Birmingham, representing Australia for the first time.

The 25-year-old came away with a gold and a silver medal for swimming in the heats of the 4x100m men’s freestyle relay and 4x100m medley relay.

In his individual event, Simpson finished fifth in the men’s 100m butterfly final in a time of 52.06 seconds, just outside his personal best of 51.79 seconds.

Reflecting on his achievements, Simpson took to Instagram on Saturday to thank his supporters.

“I had remained off social media for the duration of the Commonwealth Games and a few days thereafter, but today I’ve re-downloaded it to an overwhelming flood of supportive and congratulatory messages,” he wrote on his story, alongside a photo of his two medals.

“My first Commonwealth Games done & dusted. For me, the very act of training morning and night and the thrill of racing is rewarding enough — but to walk away from my international swimming debut with a gold and silver medal (for my swims in the men’s 4x100 freestyle and 4x100 medley relay heats) is something beyond articulation for now.

Cody Simpson enjoyed a successful return to the pool in Birmingham. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Simpson came away with two medals. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

“Thanks all. Ready to go back to work, keep improving on my individual events and perhaps explore new territory.

“I’m honoured to represent Australia and represent all the kids who decide to walk steadfastly in the direction their dreams, it’s never too late!”

Simpson is now enjoying a well deserved holiday in Italy with his girlfriend Emma McKeon, who won a remarkable eight medals (including six gold) in Birmingham.

The Olympic champion and popstar turned swimmer have dominated the headlines both in and out of the pool during their time in Birmingham, mainly due to a rumoured love triangle with fellow Australian swimmer Kyle Chalmers.

Asked how Simpson was handling things after she won a historic 12th gold medal in the 50m butterfly, McKeon revealed her heart was racing when watching Simpson race, half an hour before she walked out onto the pooldeck for her event.

“I was very excited for him,” she told Channel 7.

“I get that when watching him and other people that are close to me, more than I do for my own races. I am excited to watch him tomorrow night.”