Share

Chad le Clos' parents fighting cancer

Cape Town - South African swimming superstar Chad le Clos has confirmed that both his parents are battling cancer.

Le Clos, the 2012 gold medal winner in the 200m butterfly in London, is expected to resume his duel with American legend Michael Phelps in both the 100m and 200m butterfly in Rio next month.

Le Clos' preparations have unfortunately been affected by the news that his mother, Geraldine, has had her breast cancer return, while his father, Bert, has developed prostate cancer.

Geraldine has undergone a double mastectomy, while Bert has lost 30kg in weight in the past six months.

In a statement issued on Monday, Le Clos wrote:

The Rio Olympics are just a few weeks away but I can confirm that both my parents are fighting cancer.

My Mum Geraldine has breast cancer which has returned since her remission in 2010. She has recently undergone a double mastectomy and is now having chemo. My Dad Bert developed prostate cancer and has also undergone an operation in late June.

It has not been an easy time but I am training hard for Rio. More than anything else I want them to win their battles. I also hope that they will be in Rio.

I would ask my friends in the media to respect their recovery. I will also not be doing any media prior to Rio.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE