Ian Thorpe is battling a serious infection after contracting two potentially deadly bugs following a series of surgeries on his shoulder.
What happened?
The 31-year-old five-time Olympic gold medallist is receiving treatment at a Sydney hospital.
His agent James Erskine confirmed the swimming great was receiving treatment and that he was ‘quite sick’.
Why it matters for Ian Thorpe
Ian’s competitive future is uncertain, with Erskine stating he will not swim competitively again.
The infection was serious, but Erskine rubbished earlier reports that Ian would lose use of his left arm.
What comes next?
Ian is said to be in good spirits and has received numerous visitors while in hospital.
In February, his father revealed he was battling depression following an ill-fated attempt to compete at the 2012 London Olympics.
Ian underwent two or three operations over the last two months, with Erskine citing bad luck as a factor.
The swimming legend's agent stated the situation was serious but not life-threatening.
Ian’s health issues are the latest upset in his life, following a series of challenges in recent years.
Erskine’s comments confirm the seriousness of Ian’s condition, with the swimming legend facing an uncertain future.
The news has sparked concern among fans and supporters of the Australian swimming legend.
Ian Thorpe's competitive career may be over, but his legacy in the swimming world remains unchanged.
The exact timeline for Ian’s recovery is unclear, with his agent providing limited information on his condition.
Ian’s fans will be hoping for a speedy recovery, as the swimming legend faces a challenging road ahead.