Canadian swimmer Brent Hayden attempts comeback at 36

Published Oct. 23, 2019 3:38 p.m. ET

VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) — Canadian swimmer Brent Hayden is coming out of retirement after seven years with a goal of competing at the 2020 Olympics.

The 36-year-old Hayden said Wednesday he left because he "hated the sport" but now realizes he has a chance to "fall in love with the sport again."

Hayden retired after earning a bronze in the 100-meter freestyle at the 2012 London Games. At the time, he was dealing with back problems and personal issues.

He is aiming to qualify for Tokyo in the 50 free and possibly the 100 free, along with relays. Hayden returned to training last month in Vancouver.

John Atkinson, Swimming Canada's high performance director, is supporting Hayden's comeback. He says Hayden is more mature and has a sense of purpose about his goals.