Siobhan Haughey's coach disappointed at swimming chair 'regretful' comment

Siobhan Haughey's coach, Tom Rushton, said he found it disappointing that the Hong Kong China Swimming Association chairman Ronnie Wong Man-chiu called Haughey's results at the Paris Olympics "regretful" and added the coaching team is proud of the work she had put in and the results she achieved.

Wong was said to have mentioned in a previous radio program that he was pleased with Haughey's performance, but it was regrettable that she couldn't achieve better results as the three decorated swimmers in the 100m freestyle had similar times.

Wong also pointed out that mentality affects athletes' performance and thought Haughey's success was due to her low-key lifestyle and focus on training and competition.

His comments led to widespread discussion, with Rushton stating it was a "bit disappointing, and an inexperienced quote."

Rushton said Haughey sent him the comments early Thursday morning and he thought there was a mistranslation. He asked Haughey to listen to the original tape.

However, Haughey reconfirmed the comment and noted it was "not good" and not what Rushton expected.

Rushton stressed that Haughey is the first woman to have won medals twice in both the 100m and 200m freestyle events, along with being the Hong Kong Olympian with the most medals and also having the third fastest time for the 100m freestyle.

He stated that he and the team knew how hard Haughey had worked and were proud of her.