Neurodiversity is disproportionately high among elite athletes. How does it affect professional cricketers?
By Jo Harman for Wisden Cricket Monthly
Simone Biles, the most successful American gymnast in history and a four-time Olympic gold medallist, describes the way her brain functions as both her “challenge” and her “superpower”. Aged nine, she was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a neurodevelopmental condition that often leads to hyperactivity, impulsivity and a lack of focus. But rather than holding her back, Biles believes it has given her an extra edge.
Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, was also diagnosed with ADHD in childhood. He too says he has been able to harness his condition to achieve record-breaking feats, even if there have been struggles along the way. “Growing up, I was someone who was constantly bouncing off the walls – I could never sit still,” said the American swimmer. “But it’s something that I’m thankful happened, and I’m thankful that I am who I am.”
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Source link : https://www.theguardian.com/sport/article/2024/may/09/cricketers-adhd-superpower-struggle-neurodiversity-athletes
Author : Jo Harman
Publish date : 2024-05-09 10:30:53
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