The way, the truth and the Olympic record: how God struck gold in Paris | Emma John

Athletes no longer feel the need to stay silent about the role of religion in their approach to sport

Shoulders still heaving in recovery, Adam Peaty stood poolside talking to the BBC's Sharron Davies. He had just lost his Olympic title by 0.02 seconds - and yet he was smiling. I'm a very religious man," said Peaty, sporting a tattoo of a cross on his torso. I asked God just to show my heart, and this is my heart. I couldn't have done more."

It was unusual to hear an athlete famous for his red mist" approach- The Man Who Swims Angry - manifesting the peaceful fruits of his newfound faith. But then there has been a rather heavenly air in the Aquatic Centre atthis Paris Olympics.

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