‘Unexpectedly’: Aussie swimming champion Ellie Cole’s baby joy

Australia’s most decorated Paralympian Ellie Cole has revealed her baby joy after the expected arrival of her first child.

Australian swimming champion Ellie Cole has warmed hearts after she revealed she had “unexpectedly” given birth to her son three weeks early.

The 32-year-old Cole went to four Paralympic Games, winning 17 medals — six gold, five silver and six bronze — to become Australia’s most decorated Paralympian.

Having retired in 2022, Cole has been ticking off life goals.

But it’s been a massive start to 2024 for the swim champ.

Not only did she receive a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the Australia Day honours this year, but Cole revealed she had also given birth to baby Felix.

However,

“They say when your own child is born, it is one of the greatest miracles you could ever hope for. We are feeling so blessed,” she wrote on Instagram.

“Felix Parker Cole joined our family this morning, unexpectedly, three weeks early.

“We know that he will make us see the world in an entirely different way. Welcome to the world, little Felix. All we see is you.”

Cole was inundated with congratulatory messages from across swimming.

“I’ve already organised many play dates with Felix, I’ll be teaching him some swear words and how to annoy mama Ellie,” Paralympic swimmer Col Pearse wrote.

Former swimming star turned Channel 7 TV presenter Johanna Griggs commented: “Oh massive congratulations. How wonderful.”

Ellie Cole has a trophy cabinet full of these.

Ellie Cole is celebrating her first child. Photo: Getty Images and Instagram

Olympic slalom canoe legend Jess Fox posted: “Hello little Felix. Congratulations so perfect!”

Swimming great Giaan Rooney said: “Oh my goodness congratulations, you are going to be an incredible Mum!”

Journalist Jacqui Mooney added: “This is THE most beautiful news, beyond thrilled for you!”

“Whaaaaaaaaaaaat a beautiful little baby!!! Love his name!!!! Congratulations Mummas xxxx,” Olympic beach volleyballer gold medallist Kerri Pottharst wrote.

Sports reporter Hayley Willis said: “CONGRATULATIONS!!! Welcome to literally the best chapter of your lives. Felix is absolute perfection.”

Cole is an amputee, having had her right leg amputated above the knee after she was diagnosed with a rare tumour at the age of two.

However, it didn’t hold her back with her 17 Paralympic medals, 10 World Championships medals and another four at the Commonwealth Games.