I turned down Love Island and won silver at the Commonwealth Games
Swimmer Katie Shanahan chose to prioritize her athletic career over an appearance on the reality show Love Island. Her decision resulted in a silver medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, validating her commitment to professional sports.
Why it matters
The story highlights the tension between the allure of reality television fame and the dedication required for elite athletic achievement.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Katie Shanahan claimed silver in the 200m breaststroke on the opening night of the Games.
In another reality, swimmer Katie Shanahan might have been looking for love on her favourite TV show - but instead made a decision that would lead her to a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games.
The 22-year-old told BBC Scotland News she was offered the chance to appear on Love Island last year, the reality dating show where singletons are placed in a Spanish villa.
However Glasgow-born Shanahan turned down the offer of sunshine in Mallorca, choosing instead to focus on her sport at the Tollcross swimming centre.
Last Friday she claimed silver in the 200m breaststroke on the opening night of the Games.
More stories from Glasgow & West Scotland
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in