Olympic medallist Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix has spoken publicly about her Christian faith in an interview in The Times.
The Team GB diver won a bronze medal in the women’s 10m platform synchronised diving final at the Paris Olympics this summer, and has been nominated for The Sunday Times young sportswoman of the year. Alongside her training, the 20-year-old is studying journalism at City, University of London.
Speaking to The Times’ Commissioning Editor, Roisin Kelly, she shared how her mother Alessandra “found Christ when we were going through a tough time”, and how that led to Andrea attending church, reading the Bible and praying daily.
Identity in Christ
When the diver made her Olympic debut at 16 years old, she said she had a “very toxic and unhealthy” relationship with food and body image.
But now, she explained how her relationship with God helps with life’s pressures, saying: “My faith means my identity stays the same regardless of whether I get a medal, gain weight or lose weight.”
Andrea praised her mum, a stay-at-home mother, who she feels is “left out a lot” but without her “I wouldn’t be able to do what I do”.
The 20-year-old stated: “My mum taught me the best job in the world is being a mum. I can’t wait to have my own children and hopefully be as good as she is.”
‘Glory to God’
When Andrea won her bronze medal in August, she was quick to praise God in front of the cameras, saying: “It’s been a crazy two years. I give glory to God.”
On Instagram, she shared a picture of herself with diving partner Lois Toulson alongside the text of Joshua 1:9. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
She added: “God was with us from round 1 to round 5. He is with us wherever we go. He never lets us down.”
“This is more than just sport. I am proud to represent my country, my family and glorify the name of Jesus.”
Record-breaking Olympian: ‘I always pray God will be glorified whatever the result’