Chad le Clos’s Parents on the Pride of Watching Him Race

Photo Credit: Screengrab - Glasgow 2026

As the South African swimmer became the most decorated athlete in Commonwealth Games history, his parents shared an emotional tribute to the son who continues to make them proud.

Glasgow, Scotland (31 July 2026) – Chad le Clos may have made Commonwealth Games history with an unprecedented 21 medals, but for his parents, the achievement is about far more than records and numbers.

As the South African swimming star reached another remarkable milestone in Glasgow, his parents shared an emotional tribute to the son whose journey has filled them with pride and, in his father’s case, inspired a personal transformation.

“Chad, let me explain. You have made me into a better father,” his father said. “Because of who you are and how you are, and your love, you have made me make goals. You made me lose 40 kilos. I’m going to live a few years longer because of how you’ve done for me.”

His mother also shared a heartfelt message of support.

“Just want to say how proud we are of you.”

The messages offered a glimpse into the family behind one of South Africa’s most celebrated athletes. The 34-year-old became the most decorated athlete in Commonwealth Games history when he earned his 21st medal in the men’s 4x100m medley relay at the 2026 Games in Glasgow.

It was a fitting conclusion to a Commonwealth Games journey that began in 2010, when Chad won gold in the 200m butterfly in Delhi. Nearly 16 years and five Commonwealth Games later, he now stands alone at the top of the all-time medal table across every sporting code.

His latest medal was one of three he earned in Glasgow, all in relay events. The achievement also took him beyond former record holders and Australian swimmer Emma McKeon, making him the first athlete to reach the 21-medal mark.

Chad’s Commonwealth Games collection now includes seven gold medals, five silver medals and nine bronze medals.

While the numbers tell the story of an extraordinary sporting career, his parents’ words reveal another side of the achievement. One built on love and shared dreams that have accompanied him throughout the journey.

See the full video here.