Michael Gunning, a former international swimmer, recently received the Sports Personality award at the Ethnicity Awards. During his acceptance speech, he acknowledged the "dark times" he faced and expressed gratitude to those who offered support. This award comes after a period of significant personal change for Gunning, including the dissolution of his close friendship with Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty, stemming from Gunning's alleged disinvitation to Peaty's wedding.
Michael Gunning, a former international swimmer, was recently honored with the Sports Personality award at the Ethnicity Awards. During an emotional acceptance speech on Thursday evening, the 32-year-old dedicated his win to "anyone who has felt alone," highlighting the personal struggles he has overcome. He expressed profound thanks to all who illuminated his path, stating, "There have been some dark times in life and it's down to everyone that shines a light that opens up the doors to people." The Ethnicity Awards are an annual event that celebrates individuals and organizations dedicated to supporting Black, Asian, and other diverse ethnic communities. Gunning joined a distinguished group of honorees, including singer Heather Small, television presenters Charlene White and Gok Wan, and EastEnders actress Diane Parish, underscoring the broad impact of the awards.
This recognition follows a transformative period in Gunning's life, marked by the evolution of various personal relationships. He has openly discussed navigating the end of friendships, notably his once-strong bond with Olympic champion Adam Peaty. The two swimmers had a long history of training together, with Peaty even providing Gunning access to his home pool during lockdown, a gesture that was crucial to Gunning's Olympic aspirations. Gunning had previously lauded Peaty, 31, as a vital ally, crediting his support for his own achievements. However, their friendship reportedly strained when Gunning was allegedly uninvited from Peaty's December wedding to Gordon Ramsay's daughter, Holly, held at Bath Abbey. Reports suggested that Gunning's close relationship with Peaty's mother, Caroline, was a contributing factor to the disinvitation.
In the lead-up to the wedding, Gunning had shared an Instagram post reflecting on a year filled with new opportunities and shifting friendships. He wrote about his extensive travels, significant personal growth, the risks he took, and the challenges he faced, including being let down by friends while simultaneously forging unexpected new connections. He emphasized his belief that "change can be a really beautiful thing and you should never stop fighting for your dream!" Last month, Gunning revealed that therapy had been instrumental in helping him process the departure of people from his life. He maintained that he harbored "no bitterness" towards his former friend, acknowledging the many happy memories they shared and the invaluable support Peaty provided. Gunning explained that he has historically struggled with endings, which therapy has helped him understand and accept as a natural part of life's journey. He concluded by extending his best wishes for "nothing but happiness" to Adam, Holly, 26, and their unborn daughter.
