Sir Bradley Wiggins Praises Lance Armstrong as an Inspiration During His Recovery Journey
Sir Bradley Wiggins, the celebrated Olympic champion, has publicly acknowledged the controversial figure Lance Armstrong as a significant source of inspiration in his life, particularly during his battle with drug addiction. Wiggins, who bravely shared his struggles with cocaine addiction after retiring in 2016, is now celebrating a year of sobriety and actively participates in therapy.
In a heartfelt conversation with BBC Five Live, Wiggins expressed gratitude for Armstrong’s support, stating, "He’s been a great strength and inspiration to me on a human level. Not everyone may want to hear this, as people often focus on the negative aspects. However, I can only judge someone by how they treat me, and Lance has been a constant source of help in my journey. He plays a significant role in my mental and physical well-being today, and for that, I am truly indebted to him."
While Wiggins and Armstrong do not communicate regularly, they are planning to collaborate on the podcast "The Move" during the upcoming Tour de France. The 45-year-old father of two has also been candid about his past experiences with sexual abuse as a teenager, which contributed to his struggles with addiction.
Wiggins emphasized the importance of recognizing our shared humanity, saying, "At the end of the day, we are all human, and my story is one of many. I’ve faced numerous events in my life that shaped the challenges I encountered after cycling." He also noted that during his cycling career, he never sought therapy or counseling, as there is a perception that champions like him must be mentally invincible.
"It took me a long time to adjust to normal life and to find the support that helps me maintain a stable mindset," Wiggins reflected. His openness about his experiences not only sheds light on the struggles faced by athletes but also highlights the importance of seeking help and the impact of supportive relationships in recovery.
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