Sam Laidlow admits his health made him consider quitting triathlon.
The French Sam Laidlow, world champion HOMBRE DE HIERRO 2023 in Nice, has publicly acknowledged that he considered quitting professional triathlon due to his health problems.
Since collapsing in Kona last October, Laidlow has been sidelined from competition due to an electrolyte imbalance that has prevented him from training normally.
“For three months I haven't been able to do anything. It's like a carpenter being commissioned to do a job and having no tools. Very frustrating,” he told TRI247 during the Sir Bani Yas Challenge.
“If I had to leave tomorrow, I would be at peace.”
Despite the uncertainty, Laidlow shows maturity and serenity in the face of the situation.
"I've even thought I'd never come back. But if I couldn't compete tomorrow, I'd be proud of what I've done."
At 25, Laidlow has been competing since she was four. “I've been in this sport for 22 years now. Every step forward is a gift,” she added.
Objective: IRONMAN Nice 2025
His goal remains clear: to return to IRONMAN World Championship, this time again in NiceThe 14 September.
Although he doesn't rule out not making it in time, his priority is getting back to health: "The important thing now is to make sure I can continue competing for another ten years."
Inspire beyond competition
Beyond the titles, Laidlow has set a new goal: to inspire others and promote the value of health.
“Health is your superpower. I want to continue showing my best, but also remind people that taking care of themselves is the most important thing.”
