ATLANTA — Two-time Olympic gold medalist and Fayetteville native Christian Taylor is getting yet another chance to show out on the big stage in the home of the Eiffel Tower.
Following an injury that caused him to miss the 2021 Tokyo Games, Taylor is now training ahead of July.
“I’m expected for another opportunity to represent my country on the biggest stage. And there’s just something in the air that’s very different when it comes to the Olympic season,” he said.
Taylor ruptured his Achilles right before he could compete in Tokyo, but he didn’t let that stop him. In fact, he called the moment “a blessing in disguise.”
“But I’ve now learned that this was only setting me up for something far greater. And so it was an opportunity to just realign and reassess,” Taylor added.
He has competed in multiple events since his injury, proving that he was back better than ever.
Taylor said despite all his past accomplishments, he is already looking forward to the future. He also praised his wife, Beate, who is also his coach. Taylor said she has been a “tremendous source of strength” through his injury and his most challenging moments.
He said the key to continuing to be achieved is to be hopeful and have people that support.
“It’s all about what you do and achieve on that day. And so my mindset is always I’m always very hopeful and expectant and the bar is set,” he added.
Taylor elaborated on the impact of the Olympics’ ability to bring the world together to “cheer for positivity.” He also told 11Alive’s Cheryl Preheim as people watch the Games this summer, he wants them to believe in their own dreams and know that they are achievable.
As Taylor continues his training ahead of Paris, he said he's excited to host another invitational in March at his high school, Sandy Creek High, in Tyrone, Georgia.
Taylor said the invitational allows him to prepare some of the young athletes for the big leagues.
“I talked about that mentality, things I try to pass on, little nuggets of knowledge of what I missed, the mistakes I made, you know, when I was in school,” the Olympian added.
As he trains for Paris, Taylor said he's exploring the idea of running in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. However, his decision remains uncertain as he grows older and looks to explore other avenues in his life.
Watch the full interview with Christian Taylor below.