Two-time Olympic sprinter Morgan Mitchell has opened up about a disturbing attack she faced as a teenager on her 30th birthday.
Mitchell ran in the green and gold at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2021 Olympics before narrowly missing out on selection for the Paris Games this year, and on Thursday she posted a thoughtful announcement for her birthday.
She revealed that a domestic violence attack when she was 18 made her doubt her ability to achieve any of her dreams.
‘Wow… A milestone I never thought would be possible. I reached 30 years old,’ he wrote on social networks.
‘This time I almost lost my life 12 years ago due to domestic violence which left me in hospital with a concussion and a broken jaw.
“It’s crazy to think that at one point in my life I really thought I would miss moments like this.”
Her heartfelt message was accompanied by a series of photographs showing some of the accomplishments she is most proud of, along with an image of her injuries from domestic violence.
Australian sprinter Morgan Mitchell has spoken out about a domestic violence incident that threatened her career and self-esteem.
She shared images of the attack that left her hospitalized, along with what she has been able to accomplish in the 12 years since.
Mitchell’s publications featured her first article published in Vogue magazine, her appearance on the cover of Women’s Health, and several competition appearances including the Olympic and Commonwealth Games.
Many of which she said she had recorded in a “dream diary” as a child and again as an adult.
She gave thanks to a particular children’s charity that helped her when she was younger.
“If I can ask for anything this birthday it’s for everyone to click the link in my bio and learn more about (Cottage by the Sea, Queenscliff),” he wrote.
‘(It’s) an amazing children’s charity that gives disadvantaged children the opportunity to experience a life away from negativity and instil in them the belief that, no matter your background or upbringing, you can be whatever and whoever you want.
“I attended the Cottage as a child and am now a two-time Olympian.”
His inspiring story was accompanied by a message for his fans and followers.
‘You never know what the last day will be and if my journey has taught me anything it is to be grateful for what you have, go after what you want and never give up.
Mitchell’s publications featured her first article published in Vogue magazine, her appearance on the cover of Women’s Health, and several competition appearances including the Olympic and Commonwealth Games.
“Also, let us protect our women and children,” he added.
His openness was met with emphatic support from his fans and colleagues.
You really are one in a million! And we are all lucky to have you in our lives,” wrote fellow athlete Anna Kelly.
“Thank you for sharing this with us and being an advocate for protecting our women and children,” wrote another.
Olympic hurdler Celeste Mucci simply wrote: “no one like you.”
“You’re amazing,” former Bachelorette star Brooke Blurton added.
Mitchell had rarely spoken publicly about the incident, but briefly addressed the topic in an interview with nice sandy magazine last year.
Mitchell has appeared on magazine covers and covers, in a film and in multiple international athletics competitions, including the Olympic and Commonwealth Games.
“I suffered a serious injury when I was 18 due to domestic abuse that left me in the hospital,” Mitchell told the publication when asked about the biggest challenge she has faced in her career.
“It’s something I haven’t really talked about much, but it was definitely a defining moment because mentally it stayed with me long after the incident.
“I started to question my self-esteem and my motivation for sport and life.”
Mitchell is now targeting the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and is reportedly training with Peter Fortune to earn a spot on the Australian team.
National Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Counseling Service: 1800 RESPECT
Lifeline: 13 11 14