10 Minutes With Tom Daley
It's been a while since your first Olympic medal, Tom. What’s life been like since stepping away from the sport?
It’s very weird. I miss the routine and structure of training every day. But at the same time, it's been nice to explore other passions, opportunities and do things I never would've had time for if I were still training.
You’ve got two young children now, what’s life like as a dad?
Earlier mornings, more wake-ups in the night – but it's the best. It changes your perspective, how you look at everything, how you spend your time. Even how you see things out in the world. I remember when my eldest Robbie was really young – he saw a tree for the first time and was mesmerised. Moments like that remind you to slow down and not take anything for granted.
You’ve been on our screens for years – can you tell us something we don’t know about you?
I love to host! Whether it's a weekend BBQ or dinners, I love any excuse to get people together. I’ve made new friends since moving to LA and I’ve definitely embraced the weather. I’m the classic Brit out here – if it’s nice out, we’re having a BBQ! I also like to make easy-to-prep dishes that work for big groups and have a bit of wow factor, like chicken, sun-dried tomato and pesto puff pastry parcels – they crisp up like little pies and look great. Or salmon en croûte which is easy to prepare in advance and slice up to serve.
When you have time off, what does a perfect day look like?
Wake up with the kids and go for a hike to somewhere like Runyon Canyon. Then brunch. After that, I’d love some time knitting outside while the boys play. Maybe an adventure – the beach, a museum, gallery or water park with Robbie. Then friends over for dinner and a games night. I know that seems intense for a day off, but I like to stay busy!
Speaking of knitting, how did you get into it?
It actually came from my coach telling me I never sit still and don’t take time to rest and recover properly. My husband suggested I try knitting, so I thought, ‘Okay, I’ll give it a go.’ I went straight to YouTube, got my needles and yarn, and taught myself. Then, people I never knew could knit started helping me out. I became obsessed. I learned to crochet next, then started designing my own things – it all snowballed from there.
What’s your proudest creation?
Definitely the jumpers I made during the Olympics in Tokyo and Paris. They’re mementos. I wanted to be able to look back years from now and say, ‘I made those during the Games.’
Do you have any tips for beginners looking to get into the hobby?
It’ll feel fiddly at first, figuring out how to hold everything and where it goes. But stick with it. Don’t rush. Take it one step at a time and start with simple squares or patches before jumping into a big project.
If you could knit or crochet something for anyone, living or dead, what would you make?
Oof, great question. I think I’d love to use some silver yarn to make an over-the-top Met Gala dress for Zendaya. Something really cool, a crochet/knit, maybe a hybrid. I feel like she'd absolutely rock it.
You’ve created a crochet bag for Diet Coke – how did you decide on the design?
I've always been a Diet Coke fan – it's almost a personality trait. When they asked me to design a little bag, I had this idea for a mini clutch. We went through lots of iterations and landed on a granny square design. It felt very chic, very Diet Coke. It was a fun way to show the things I’m into now.
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What does a perfect summer day with Diet Coke look like for you?
A nice, crisp one straight from the fridge – ice cold. Lots of people prefer pouring it into a glass, but for me, it’s best out of the can. I’d then love a picnic in the park with friends in the UK, some fun and games around, picky bits on a blanket, and of course, a Diet Coke. Absolute heaven. And knitting needles too, obviously.
Have you tried Dua Lipa’s recipe with pickle juice in it?
Not yet but I did see this! I love pickles – and dirty martinis – so I get the combo.
How does it feel seeing your crochet work out in the world?
If you’d told me five years ago I’d be doing this, I’d have laughed. But I love it. I’m lucky to have found a second passion. It’s fun, exciting and a lot kinder to the body. It was my superpower during diving too as it really helped me switch off. I feel very fortunate to have discovered something I truly love again.
Can we expect any more fashion pieces soon?
I hope so! Any chance to be creative and bring an idea to life is where I want to be. I’m also growing Made With Love, my knitting brand, hoping to make more for other people and get more folks into craft. Not just buying off the rack, but doing it themselves.
And lastly – any tips for those keen to dip their toes into something creative?
Find something you think looks cool and learn to make it. Whether it's using a sewing machine, embroidery, upcycling clothes, cross-stitch, knitting or crochet, just try it. Have that moment for yourself. Unwind. Don’t worry what anyone else thinks. The possibilities really are endless.
Tom Daley has partnered with Diet Coke as part of its This Is My Taste campaign to create the ultimate summer accessory: the Diet Coke crochet bag. Keen to get your hands on one? Keep an eye on @DietCokeGBI
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