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Which athletes have ADHD and are successful? 

PostedOctober 9, 2025
UpdatedOctober 9, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

Many athletes with ADHD have proven that ADHD does not have to limit success in sports. While the condition can bring challenges, such as difficulties with focus and impulse control, many athletes have turned these traits into strengths, contributing to their sports performance and remarkable careers. 

Famous players like Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympic athlete in history, and Simone Biles, a multiple Olympic gold medallist, have openly discussed their experiences with ADHD. Phelps credits his ADHD for helping him maintain a high level of focus and determination in his training. Biles has also spoken about how managing her ADHD has helped her maintain balance and achieve excellence in gymnastics. 

How ADHD Helps Athletes 

Hyperfocus 

Athletes with ADHD often excel at sports performance due to their ability to enter a state of hyperfocus, where they become fully absorbed in their training or competition. 

High energy 

The high energy levels associated with ADHD can be channelled into athletic performance, helping athletes push through exhaustion and stay motivated. 

Resilience 

Many famous players with ADHD develop resilience by overcoming the challenges that come with the condition, and this perseverance often translates into success on the field or court. 

In conclusion, athletes with ADHD show that the condition can be a source of strength, driving them to achieve success stories and become leaders in their respective sports. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Myths about ADHD and intelligence.

Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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