- Swim star and wife Maddi now proud parents
- Named their son Hartley James McEvoy
- Nod to Maddi’s four open-heart surgeries
Aussie Olympic gold medallist Cam McEvoy has announced the birth of his son – and revealed his name is a tribute to his wife overcoming a serious health problem during her pregnancy.
Hartley James McEvoy was born on July 10, with the baby’s name a nod to his mother Maddi, who has endured heart problems her entire life.
Born with a pulmonary valve defect, she has previously had four open-heart surgeries, including getting a replacement pulmonary valve when she was 17.
The recent arrival of Hartley came with a birthing plan, with the aim to keep Maddi’s heart rate down.
Hartley – like many babies – didn’t follow the script, but still arrived safely.
‘Mum and baby are both doing exceptionally well,’ the winner of the 50m freestyle at the 2024 Paris Games confirmed on Instagram.
Aussie Olympic gold medallist Cam McEvoy has announced the birth of his son – and then revealed the heart-warming meaning behind his name
Hartley James McEvoy was born on July 10, with the baby’s name a nod to his mother Maddi, who has endured heart problems her entire life
Born with a pulmonary valve defect, Maddi (pictured with Hartley) has had four open-heart surgeries, including a replacement pulmonary valve when she was 17
McEvoy, 31, is a great example of sporting perseverance at the elite level.
Before his epic triumph last year in the Paris La Défense Arena, the Gold Coast born star failed to medal at the 2016 and 2020 Olympics in Rio and Tokyo respectively.
After studying physics and mathematics at Griffith University, McEvoy dramatically altering his training regime under the watchful eye of new coach Tim Lane.
Less time was spent in the pool, with McEvoy largely based in the gym, placing focus on high intensity strength and mobility work.
It was a bold strategy in the eyes of many, but the man affectionately known as the ‘The Professor’ had the last laugh, finishing with a gold medal around his neck.
McEvoy will look to defend his 50m freestyle Olympic title at the LA Games in 2028 – and hasn’t ruled out Brisbane four years later.
‘It’s on the radar. A lot can happen between now and then, but if I’m motivated enough and I’m in good health, I see no reason why I won’t give it a crack,’ he said.
In February, McEvoy stunned many of his friends in swimming circles by dropping the news he had secretly married Maddi.
Cam McEvoy shocked the world in last year’s Paris Olympic Games when he won gold in the men’s 50m freestyle (pictured)
McEvoy revealed his secret marriage to Maddi (pictured) on social media in February
McEvoy is now a proud father to Hartley (pictured) – and at 31, won’t rule out competing at the Brisbane Olympics in 2032
In a low-key affair, the couple shared the happy news with a single photo of their wedding day on social media with the caption ‘eloped’, accompanied by a wedding ring emoji.
The exciting development shocked several swimming legends, who rushed to send messages of congratulations.
Love you guys,’ posted Ariarne Titmus at the time, while Lani Pallister commented: ‘OMG this is so beautiful’.
Australian swimming legend Grant Hackett remarked: ‘Wonderful news. Congratulations.’
