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'After LA, I'm done and dusted': Hayden Wilde opens up on Olympics, motivations and more
Sport Nation • January 28th, 2026 11:44 am
Hayden Wilde of New Zealand after winning the T100 Qatar | Photo: T100/Triathlon
In a sport built on obsessive individual planning, Hayden Wilde says that he keeps things refreshingly loose.
“I've actually been quite organised (this year). Like I say I'm going to do certain races, but I kind of book flights the week before more or less," he told Sport Nation's Scotty Stevenson and Sam Ackerman in an open and honest discussion in studio.
That calm approach has paid off when it matters most.
“In the Olympics, we got delayed two days and for some people, that just like absolutely rattled them… Where for me, I just kind of looked at my clock, woke up, (saw the email) and went back to bed.”
Back home in New Zealand, the Olympic silver medallist has become a genuine fan favourite and enjoys connecting with his community.
“I like people coming up to me… it’s not a burden, it’s an honour… if anyone wants to have conversation in the milk section, more than happy to help."
But make no mistake, the relaxed exterior hides real intent. With Los Angeles 2028 firmly in sight, Wilde is clear about what’s driving him.
“I've got unfinished business there," Wilde said.
"After the LA Olympics, I'm done and dusted with the Olympics there and I'll be going to the Ironman."
That is unless the rumoured T100 event, which the 28-year-old currently carries the world crown, were to be included in the Brisbane 2032 program.
But as Sam Ackerman puts it: “Never meet your heroes - unless it’s Hayden Wilde.”
But as Sam Ackerman puts it: “Never meet your heroes - unless it’s Hayden Wilde.”
Watch the full interview via the Sport Nation YouTube below:
