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Motherhood and medals: Meet 3 Olympians who have returned to sport since starting a family

Pregnant woman training cardio on exercise spin bike at indoor fitness gym or home training on stationary bicycle. Closeup of fit girl holding pregnancy belly

Once, in the not-too-distant past, becoming a mum meant having to leave dreams of a successful sports career behind.  

But in Paris 2024, this is far from the truth. Part of the evolving landscape of women’s sport has meant a more welcoming and accepting space for mothers who want to return to their careers after having children. 

Just recently, FIFA have introduced a minimum of 14 weeks paid maternity leave for players, and England Netball have set the standard on how sports can support women returning to play, providing pregnancy-specific guidance such as pelvic floor exercises and advice.