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Katie Shanahan Wins Commonwealth Silver After Turning Down Love Island

BBC Sport •
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Katie Shanahan, 22-year-old swimmer from Glasgow, was offered a spot on Love Island 2026 but declined to focus on training at Tollcross swimming centre. She told BBC Scotland that the chance of sunshine in Mallorca was tempting but swimming had to come first.

On the opening night of the Commonwealth Games, Shanahan won silver in the 200m breaststroke. The medal came after a long training period and inspired by Hannah Miley’s 2014 performance. She said she hopes younger girls watching her race will be encouraged to take up swimming.

Her decision paid off in the pool, and she struggled to contain tears after the win. Shanahan received a flood of well‑wishing messages from friends and fans, and she thanked the home‑games support that made the moment even more special.

Other athletes, such as Abbie Wood, Jon McConnell, and Kaci Rock, also turned down similar offers to focus on the Games, highlighting the tough choices elite competitors face.