Melissa Wu, the first Australian diver to compete in five Olympics, has announced her retirement.
When Wu was just 13 years old, she represented Australia at the 2006 Commonwealth Games. She then went on to have a career almost two decades long.
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Injuries and mental health issues forced her to take time away from the sport during her career, however Wu said she left the platform without any regrets.
“I’ve been incredibly lucky to have so many people in my corner, without whom none of this would have been possible,” Wu wrote on her social media.
“After 14 years as an NSWIS athlete it’s time to close this chapter. Thanks to the support from NSWIS I’ve had the privilege of a long and successful career surrounded by an incredible team.
“Diving has been my world for over 2/3 of my life, giving me the chance to travel, make lifelong friends, and experience things most never will. I will cherish every moment forever.”
Wu made her Olympic debut at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where she won silver in the 10m synchro with Briony Cole. She also won bronze at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in the 10m individual platform.
At each of her Olympics appearances, Wu featured in at least one diving finals event.
At the Commonwealth Games, Wu won three gold and two silver medal. Her first came alongside Alex Croak in 2006 where the duo won silver in the 10m synchro platform.
Wu was the closing ceremony flag bearer at the 2022 Birmingham Games in recognition of her competing at her fifth Commonwealth Games.
Away from the Olympics and Commonwelath Games, Wu won three medals, two silver and a bronze, at the world championships.
“I’m proud of everything I’ve achieved,” she said.
“As an athlete I hope my performances continue to inspire the next generation of all athletes, not just divers. I’d like to think my career shows athletes you can have longevity, and that you can do it at any age. I always wanted to keep giving back – and I still do.”
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